In the aftermath of a career night for Bronny James, Lakers coach JJ Redick detailed his development as one of the team’s youngest active players. According to the coach, James’ greatest area of improvement so far is as a playmaker and it’s opened up the game in major ways for the 20-year-old point guard.
“The biggest area of improvement is probably just his playmaking, and I don’t mean that just in terms of passing,” said Redick, via Lakers Nation. “But just his ability to play on and off the ball as a decision-maker, either a scorer or a passer. And with that, his confidence level and level of aggression have grown. For a young player, those are two really important things.”
Bronny, the 55th pick, has gotten off to a slow start in his NBA career. After becoming a Laker this summer, Bronny made history by playing with his dad on opening night but he’s been a rare sight in the Lakers’ rotation.
This season, through 22 games, Bronny is averaging 2.3 points, 0.6 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game on 35.4% shooting. He’s played 22 of the team’s 69 games so far, averaging 5.8 minutes.
It’s on the South Bay Lakers where Bronny has excelled. In nine games so far, James Jr. is averaging 20.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game on 43.1% shooting. JJ Redick says his performance there is the biggest key to his growth as a player.
“I think he’s embraced the G League,” said Redick. “Zach (Guthrie) has done a wonderful job with his development, that staff has done a wonderful job with his development and our crew as well having communication with them and getting updates. When he’s been with us, I think he’s been fantastic. In practices and lately in games, I think he’s been really solid.”
As the son of arguably the greatest player ever, Bronny did not come into the league under normal conditions. He faced more pressure than anyone to perform and live up to his iconic family name. While he may not be a superstar like his dad, Bronny is certain that he belongs and he’ll have plenty of chances to prove it.
In the Lakers’ last contest against the Bucks, James had one of his best games yet with 17 points, four rebounds, and three assists on 35.7% shooting. It was a season-high for Bronny that even earned the attention of Stephen A. Smith.
Despite his unimpressive stats, the Lakers have full faith in Bronny and Redick believes that he can be an above-average shooter in the NBA. To meet those expectations, Bronny will have to keep improving as a decision-maker so he can make winning plays on the floor.
While Bronny may not be the strongest, fastest, or most talented young guard, he’s got an insane work ethic and a support system in place that should help him maximize his potential in the NBA. What James lacks as a scorer he can make up for with playmaking, defense, and effort every minute he’s on the court.
Already, Bronny is showing positive signs and he’s handled the entire process like a champ so far. In the face of unprecedented scrutiny, Bronny is embracing the challenge and he’s looking better and better with every game.
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