Bronny James is set to play once again for the LA Lakers in the Summer League, facing off against the LA Clippers on Monday night. Entering his second season in the league, Bronny is in a contract year, with only this season guaranteed, heightening the stakes of his performance in the Bronny James Lakers Summer League games. After limited playing time during his rookie year, his appearances this summer have drawn significant attention from fans and media alike.
Strong Summer League Performances Drawing Attention
Despite a slow start to his career, Bronny James has become one of the most closely watched players in the current summer league. His game against No. 1 draft pick Cooper Flagg notably drew the fourth-highest TV ratings for any summer league contest in ESPN history. In his previous game against the Dallas Mavericks, Bronny scored eight points in a narrow two-point loss and demonstrated strong defensive effort, often taking on the challenge of guarding much larger opponents like Flagg. His play helped maintain interest around the Lakers Summer League squad.
Bronny improved further in a 94-81 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, where he put up 14 points on 5-for-11 shooting, alongside three assists, two steals, a block, and a rebound. These contributions show an expanding skill set and increased confidence as he tries to prove his value to the Lakers organization.
Development as a Playmaker Praised by Coach Lindsey Harding
Lakers summer league coach Lindsey Harding has highlighted Bronny’s growth on the offensive end, particularly in his ability to create plays. Harding praised Bronny’s court vision, explaining that he now sees multiple passing options rather than just a single straightforward play.
“His passing out of the pick and rolls and really seeing,” Harding told reporters on Saturday. “And it’s not just the pass to the big rolling, it’s if the low man comes over, he sees the man in the corner. Right? It’s the whole floor.” —Lindsey Harding, Lakers Summer League Coach
“And I think it’s easy to see one read, but, like, he’s developing everything else. Understanding where everyone else is on the floor and where their defenders are coming from.” —Lindsey Harding, Lakers Summer League Coach
Harding further expressed her desire to have Bronny handle the ball and lead the offense during critical moments, trusting him to command the team’s attack despite earlier missed opportunities like a potential game-winner against the Mavericks.
Defensive Abilities and Future with the Lakers
Bronny’s defense has been a key aspect of his playing time, and it could continue to secure him early minutes as he adapts to the NBA level. He must convince Lakers leadership, including JJ Redick, that he merits a new guaranteed contract amid uncertainties surrounding his father LeBron James’ future with the franchise. This summer league performance could be critical in influencing the front office’s decision as they evaluate his progress and potential contribution moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Bronny James score 30 points?
A. On Friday night, Bronny James reached a personal best by scoring 31 points. This helped the South Bay Lakers beat the Rip City Remix 122-110. James made 10 out of 22 shots, including five 3-pointers out of 11 attempts. He also contributed with three assists, two rebounds, and two steals, marking South Bay’s second win of the season.
Q. Did Bronny James really score 30 points?
A. Bronny James was unstoppable with 39 points and 7 rebounds, making 67% of his shots. The Los Angeles Lakers pick reached a new personal best in points and achieved his third game over 30 points this season with the South Bay Lakers.
Q. Has Bronny James ever scored 25 points in a game?
A. During his first home match on November 30, he scored 25 points, helping his team win 77-61 against Crossroads School.
Q. Did Bronny James score 39 points?
A. Bronny James scored 39 points, leading the South Bay Lakers to victory against the Santa Cruz Warriors.