When the Los Angeles Lakers selected Bronny James with the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, fans were quick to criticize the move, claiming his selection was more about his father, LeBron James, than his own play. After averaging just 4.8 points per game during his lone season at USC, many in the basketball community labeled the then-20-year-old guard undeserving of an NBA roster spot.
Fast forward to the 2025-26 season, and Bronny is doing everything in his power to silence those skeptics.
What started as a developmental year has turned into a crucial opportunity, as the Lakers’ wave of injuries — combined with LeBron’s extended absence — has opened the door for younger players to step up and earn real minutes.
So far, Bronny has answered that call. He scored nine points on 66.7 percent shooting in 18 minutes during the team’s recent loss to the Atlanta Hawks, marking his third game in the last four where he’s logged at least 18 minutes. While some fans continue to question his spot in the rotation, his consistent playing time reflects the coaching staff’s growing confidence in his development and readiness to contribute.
Bronny James hangs in mid-air for a pretty finish 👏 pic.twitter.com/hmaClXW5OV
— NBA Philippines (@NBA_Philippines) November 9, 2025
MORE: Lakers' Bronny James is living up to NBA Draft hype in one important way
One of Bronny’s most vocal supporters has been head coach JJ Redick, who’s praised the guard's growth since day one. Redick noted that James initially had the “opposite of point-five mentality,” but credited his G League experience for accelerating his decision-making.
“It was great for me to go down to the G League to get those reps,” James said. “It helped a lot.”
It’s clear the Lakers’ focus remains on giving Bronny meaningful minutes to refine his game without compromising team chemistry. His G League stint last season was pivotal in improving his shot mechanics and defensive awareness, and this year marks the next step in that progression.
As it stands, Bronny’s role should remain steady moving forward. His energy, versatility and growing confidence have become valuable assets for Redick’s rotation. With four straight scoring appearances, he’ll look to keep that momentum rolling when the Lakers face a short-handed Charlotte Hornets squad on Monday night.
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