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[Saba Sports News] One NBA executive believes Bronny James is poised for a much bigger role with the Los Angeles Lakers next season.
No second-round pick in recent memory has entered the league with more attention than Bronny, given his status as LeBron James’ son and his place on the Lakers’ roster. While his rookie season began with growing pains, Bronny showed signs of real progress as the year went on.
Though not projected to be a future star, his development has reportedly been strong enough for the Lakers to see him as a legitimate part of their rotation moving forward.
Speaking with NBA reporter Sean Deveney, one Western Conference executive said the Lakers are “dead set” on giving Bronny a consistent role next season.
“I don’t think there’s any doubt that’s their plan,” the executive told Deveney. “I know the guy gets a lot of grief because of who his dad is, but we’ve seen a lot of tape on [Bronny], and the fact is, he was a much better player in April than he was in October — and definitely in July. … He’s going to be a regular for them next year.”
Bronny’s rookie numbers were modest: 2.3 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game on 31.3% shooting in 27 appearances. But his early struggles were amplified by the immense spotlight surrounding him.
A stint in the G League helped him find his rhythm, where he averaged 21.9 points on 44.3% shooting against lower-tier competition.
The talent is real, and with the Lakers in need of dependable role players, Bronny could be a key part of the solution. Head coach JJ Redick has already hinted at an expanded role for the 20-year-old guard. Now, it’s on Bronny to seize the opportunity.