While Bronny James is only 20 years old and entering his second NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers, the pressure is mounting for him to take a massive step forward under JJ Redick.
With the Lakers signing Marcus Smart and Nick Smith Jr. to potentially steal James’ minutes in Los Angeles, the USC product must show he’s deserving of significant minutes in 2025-26.
Unfortunately, James’ first two preseason performances have been less than ideal, as the son of four-time NBA champion LeBron James has struggled mightily on the offensive end.
James notched eight points, snagged five rebounds, and dished out two assists against the Phoenix Suns in the Lakers’ preseason opener, shooting 8.3% from the field and 12.5% from three.
The 6-foot-2 guard was slightly more efficient with the short-handed Lakers in game No. 2 (multiple rotational players didn’t participate in the contest), but still finished with below-average shooting splits.
James contributed five points, three rebounds, and three assists on 33.3% field goal shooting and 33.3% three-point shooting against the Golden State Warriors.
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The former McDonald’s All-American continues to experience issues with his perimeter jump shot, mainly due to his inability to use his lower body to help him elevate at his peak (most of his triples come up short).
James’ commitment to keeping opponents in front of him and playing sound off-ball defense in Redick’s system will remain his calling card until his offensive game finally catches up.
James will return to work next Sunday when the Lakers face the Warriors again in the preseason.
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