Bronny James Showcases Potential and Areas for Growth in NBA Summer League
Los Angeles Lakers' promising young guard, Bronny James, has shown glimpses of potential during the NBA Summer League, underscoring the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for him. As the 55th pick in the NBA draft, the 6-foot-2 shooting guard concluded his final two Summer League games with an encouraging 25 points on 10-of-21 shooting. This performance marked a significant improvement, particularly in his three-point shooting, where he converted 3 of 8 baskets after missing all 15 of his attempts in the first four games.
Bronny's early struggles in the Summer League were evident, shooting just 7 for 31 overall in the games held in San Francisco and Las Vegas. These growing pains are not uncommon for rookies making the transition to professional basketball. Dane Johnson, the Lakers Summer League coach, noted, "He had two pretty good games last two. I think it's just going to help him going into the summer so we can work on different things with him. Just that confidence and knowing he can play at this level. It's still going to take a lot of time and a lot of reps."
Standing at 6-foot-2 and primarily playing as a shooting guard, the Lakers are contemplating developing Bronny into a more versatile combo guard. Johnson is optimistic about this potential transition, saying, "I think right now he's more of a (shooting guard), but I think he could be a combo-ish. He picks up stuff really well. We throw stuff at him -- plays, coverages, defensively. He kind of picks it up really quick, so I think he could potentially be (a point guard)."
Despite battling a congenital heart defect that led to cardiac arrest during a workout at the University of Southern California last summer, Bronny James declared for the NBA draft after averaging 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in his sole college season at USC. His determination and resilience are evident, with Johnson commenting, "In general, he doesn't let any of that stuff get to him. He just wants to play basketball and be on a team. He's a good kid. He's listening. He's trying to learn."
The Lakers are likely to utilize the G League to further Bronny's development, offering a platform to refine his skills, particularly his ballhandling and perimeter shooting. There are concerns about his consistency in these areas, but his recent performances against the Atlanta Hawks and Cleveland Cavaliers indicate he possesses the ability to compete at a professional level.
As Bronny continues to grow and develop his game, the basketball world watches with anticipation. The dream of him playing alongside his father, LeBron James, remains a captivating storyline. No father-and-son duo has ever played in an NBA game simultaneously, a historical first within reach. While the NBA might yet witness this incredible milestone, it's worth noting that Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. played together in the MLB with the Seattle Mariners in 1990 and 1991, and Gordie Howe played with his sons, Marty and Mark, in the WHA and NHL.
As the journey of Bronny James unfolds, his Summer League outings have provided a foundation upon which his nascent career can build. The Lakers' coaching staff, led by the insightful guidance of Dane Johnson, are committed to nurturing his talents and addressing the areas needing improvement. For now, Bronny remains a young player with immense potential, ready to carve out his own path in the storied legacy of basketball.