As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for another competitive season, some fans have begun to question how Bronny James fits into their future ambitions. According to Lakers insider Dave McMenamin, James Jr. is on track to be a consistent rotation player for JJ Redick by the middle of the 2025-26 season.
“I think he could be a rotation player by mid-season of next year if he continues this trajectory,” McMenamin said on the Hear District podcast. “When he uses his athleticism to hawk the ball to get in the passing lanes, to go and take a charge, to have a chase down block, he can really impact the game defensively.”
Bronny, 20, isn’t your typical NBA sophomore. Since birth, Bronny has been exposed to the media spotlight, and he’s always been burdened with the pressure to live up to his family name. Over the years, when Bronny finally grew old enough to choose his own path, he made sure to follow in the footsteps of his dad.
Following a health scare in the summer of 2023, Bronny began his Freshman campaign at USC, where he averaged a modest 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game for the Trojans. His numbers weren’t great, but he showed enough to warrant attention from the Lakers, who later selected him with the 55th overall pick.
In the 2024-25 season, Bronny and his dad made history as the first father/son duo in NBA history, but they didn’t get much time together after that initial debut. James was assigned to the G-League at several points during the season, and he only played 27 games total for the Lakers, with averages of 2.3 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game on 31.3% shooting.
For next season, Bronny’s role will depend on who the Lakers pick up this summer. If they fill out the backcourt with quality veteran players, Bronny’s development will likely continue at its slow pace. Even without any major moves, however, Bronny has a chance to crack the rotation if he shows enough growth and development with his game.
Head coach JJ Redick, who has been one of Bronny’s top supporters so far, wants to see James improve with his shot selection and decision-making. While he has displayed a natural scoring talent, a lack of confidence in his abilities often causes Bronny to overthink the game and keep himself out of rhythm.
Defensively, James has shown great potential with the way he plays the passing lanes and runs for chase-down blocks. If he can hone in on that natural athleticism, it will help him level up defensively, which will be a major key to cracking JJ Redick’s rotation.
With so many unknown variables, it’s impossible to say for sure what Bronny’s role will be next season, but neither Bronny nor the Lakers are keen to rush the process of his development. With another three years and $6.7 million left on his contract, James has plenty of time to earn his place and rise in the Lakers’ rotation. In a few years, he may even be playing with his younger brother, Bryce, when he’s eligible for the NBA in 2026.
