Bronny James shows he could eventually ‘really make an impact’ for the Lakers.
On the tail end of a back-to-back on Thursday against Milwaukee, the Los Angeles Lakers found themselves in a challenging situation. With six players sidelined due to injuries, including LeBron James nursing a strained groin, and others like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves dealing with ankle soreness, the team was stretched thin.
This scenario opened the door for Bronny, the 20-year-old rookie who has faced his share of criticism.
Just under two years ago, Bronny experienced a life-threatening cardiac arrest during practice at USC, leaving his future uncertain. Since that harrowing moment, he has fought hard to return to the court, all while under intense scrutiny after being drafted 55th overall by the Lakers in 2024. His father, LeBron James, is often regarded as one of the greatest basketball players in history, which has led to Bronny being scrutinized more than most players selected in the later rounds of the draft.
Critics have labeled him as a product of nepotism, questioning his worthiness in the league.
Despite the noise, Bronny has remained focused. Typically, he has seen limited playing time, often entering games only after the crowd chants “We want Bronny” at Crypto.com Arena, urging Lakers coach JJ Redick to give him a chance.
However, against the Bucks, the Lakers needed him, and he finally had the opportunity to find his rhythm and prove he is more than just a fleeting spectacle.
In 30 minutes of play, Bronny scored 17 points, shooting 7-for-10 from the field and 2-for-4 from three-point range. He also contributed three rebounds, five assists, and one blocked shot.
His performance showcased his ability to drive to the basket, shoot from distance, and take on challenges, including a one-on-one matchup against two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Although he lost the ball out of bounds after a couple of impressive crossovers, he smiled when reflecting on the play, hinting that he felt he might have been fouled.
Bronny appeared to belong on the court, demonstrating that he is not just another rookie but a player with potential.
“I think the next step is just becoming an elite-conditioned athlete,” Redick commented. “With his physical tools, burst, and handle, we believe he has the potential to be an above-average to really good NBA shooter. He’s on track to make a significant impact.”
Known for his quiet demeanor, Bronny is respectful and humble in the locker room, acting like a rookie grateful for the opportunity rather than the son of a basketball legend.
At just 20 years old, he is aware of the chatter surrounding him. No other 55th pick has faced such intense examination, making his path even more challenging.
His approach to the pressure? “Just putting my head down and working,” Bronny stated. “That’s the only thing I can control right now. I go in every day, stay ready to play, learn, and put in the extra work. I can’t control what others say about me, so I focus on getting better.”
Before his recent performance, Bronny’s statistics were modest, averaging 1.6 points on 26.3% shooting over 21 games. These numbers, typical for a late-round draft pick, left him open to criticism.
Following a scoreless game, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith publicly questioned Bronny’s place in the NBA, suggesting he was only there because of his father’s fame. LeBron, who has faced similar scrutiny throughout his career, defended his son during a game, urging Smith to leave Bronny alone.
After Thursday’s game, Smith had a change of heart, acknowledging, “I might have been wrong.”
Bronny continues to push through the noise. He doesn’t need to play professional basketball for financial reasons; he chooses to pursue his dream. Even if that means enduring the criticism along the way.
In a previous game against Denver, he played 16 minutes, but against Milwaukee, he had the chance to shine for nearly double that time.
“I was given an opportunity tonight to show what I’ve been working on while sitting on the bench and getting reps in the G League,” Bronny said.
His journey has been remarkable, from battling health issues to proving his doubters wrong. Bronny is not merely LeBron James’ son; he is a dedicated athlete striving to achieve his own dreams.
After Thursday’s performance, it seems he is closer to making an impact than many had anticipated.
