Bronny James enters the second year of his NBA career determined to earn a consistent spot in the Los Angeles Lakers’ rotation. After a rookie season marked by limited court time—appearing in only 27 games and accumulating 181 minutes primarily in the G League—James faces a challenging road ahead. Lakers head coach JJ Redick, however, believes James has the potential to reach that goal with the right approach and development.

JJ Redick Stresses the Importance of Elite Conditioning for Bronny’s Growth

Redick emphasized that the key obstacle for Bronny James at this stage is improving his physical conditioning.

“The biggest thing for Bronny is that he has to get in elite shape,”

Redick stated in an ESPN interview.

“That’s the barrier of entry for him right now. And if he does that, I think he’s got a chance to be a really fantastic player in the NBA.”

This physical readiness is critical for James to compete at the highest level on both ends of the floor.

Comparing Bronny to Established Defenders TJ McConnell and Davion Mitchell

Beyond conditioning, Redick outlined the type of player James could evolve into by pointing to guards like TJ McConnell and Davion Mitchell as examples. Both are known for their relentless effort, especially on defense, which makes them invaluable despite their modest height.

“On every single possession, they’re in the game — whether that’s offensively or defensively — they’re able to impact it with how hard they play,”

Redick explained.

“With the defensive pickup points, the disruption, being able to get downhill … I think we have all seen these amazing flashes of it from Bronny. And to get to that next level for him, it’s cardio fitness.”

McConnell gained broader recognition during the Pacers’ unexpected run to the NBA Finals, often acting as a crucial defensive difference-maker. Though standing only 6’1″, he delivers energy and hustle that compensates for size mismatches, frustrating opponents with deflections and physicality. For example, he scored 18 points during Game 5 of the Finals against the Thunder, overcoming a size disadvantage through effort and skill.

Similarly, Mitchell has built a reputation as a defensive pest, capable of challenging larger guards like Luka Doncic despite being just 6’2″. Mitchell’s physique resembles James’s build, serving as a practical model for what James might become. While Mitchell currently boasts a superior shooting ability, James showed signs of improvement in scoring and rhythm toward the end of the G League season.

Bronny’s Recovery From Cardiac Event and Its Impact on His Progress

James’ physical development has been complicated by serious health challenges. In July 2023, he suffered a cardiac arrest following the detection of a congenital heart defect that required surgery. This medical history has influenced his conditioning and playing opportunities.

James candidly acknowledged the lingering effects on his health and performance, saying,

“I get kind of sick easier now, which is kind of weird, but I think it messed with my immune system a little bit. So, I would have times where I have to sit out, and that conditioning that I’m working on just goes away in that week of me being out.”

His conditioning setbacks impacted his playing time at USC, but he overcame those hurdles to become a 2024 NBA draft pick.

Lakers’ Confidence in Bronny’s Future Despite Health Challenges

Despite the obstacles, the Lakers and their coaching staff remain optimistic about James’ path forward. Redick expressed confidence in James’ recovery and ultimate progress.

“He’s cleared. … I get that there’s a history there of a really scary thing that he had to live through, and I think it’s tough to push past certain points for him, but he’s going to get there. He’s going to get there,”

Redick assured.

As Bronny James continues to push his limits in physical training and on-court performance, the next NBA season will be a crucial testing ground for his ability to seize a meaningful role with the Lakers. His development will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as he strives to fulfill his potential in an organization and league known for demanding peak levels of fitness and competitiveness.