One of the biggest storylines in the NBA two years ago was the first father-and-son duo ever grace the hardwood. LeBron James and Bronny James shared this historic moment, one of many tied to their last name.
Now the two will embark on new journeys for the 2026-27 season, with LeBron heading to the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference. It’s a big moment for the James family, but while one is already a living legend, the other’s story is just beginning.
Assessing Bronny’s Development Since the 2024 NBA Draft
On draft night in the summer of 2024, many pundits were skeptical of Bronny’s performance at the professional level after an underwhelming collegiate campaign. Although he was a second-round pick, most NBA analysts thought the Los Angeles Lakers were making a mistake by drafting him.
Fast forward two years later, and it’s clear he’s on a positive trajectory. He’s been grinding in for the then-South Bay Lakers, now known as the Coachella Valley Lakers.
Over the last two G League seasons, he averaged 15.6 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.1 rebounds.
If he wasn’t sharpening his tools in the G League, Bronny would be gaining knowledge from the Lakers bench alongside his father.
He took advantage of every opportunity, but his professional stats don’t reflect his impact. It’s easy to criticize him based on his stat line: 2.9 points, 1.2 assists, and 0.5 rebounds.
Few players can make an impact in 8.9 minutes, but James has worked on the little things to maximize his opportunities.
Can Bronny Become a Reliable Back-up Point Guard?
Bronny’s shooting splits show potential, most notably his 85.7% at the free-throw line. He also shot 40% from two and 39% from three last year. His progression is clear, but he still has a lot to prove.
Head coach JJ Redick must find a role for him on the Lakers’ new roster. Although the former shooting guard clearly has a soft spot for Bronny because of his relationship with his father, Collin Sexton will undoubtedly back up Lakers superstar point guard Luka Dončić.
He could slide in behind Sexton as the third string, especially with Jaden Springer off the team. This is the only way Bronny will get the experience he needs to become a reliable point guard at the professional level.
Those who watched him in the G League saw good decision-making and aggression. His impressive 39-point performance showcased three-level scoring and adroit finishes at the rim.
His defensive weaknesses will improve as the third-year guard fills out his frame. So, it’s apparent Bronny can become a long-term piece.
Setting Goals for Season Three
The Lakers’ season opener is 15 days away. It’s a huge season for Dončić and the team after adding five new teammates.
The Slovenian superstar hosted the 15-man ball club in his home country for a bonding trip to bring the team closer. It was a fun five days filled with good hoops and great food. Now that the boys are back to business, Bronny must prepare for the biggest test of his life.
He’ll get more playing time than ever, and the highs and lows are inevitable. If he perseveres through the adversity, his ceiling will increase in the eyes of this cutthroat league.
It’s imperative that he averages around 10 points and three assists per game. These stats indicate improved scoring and respectable playmaking at 23-years-old.
His improvements will justify a new contract from General Manager Rob Pelinka and his new front office. A good performance is vital for Bronny’s future in LA because he’ll have a $2.2 million team option heading into the summer of 2027.
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