Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James is working to earn a regular rotation spot as he enters his second NBA season. After gaining valuable experience during his rookie year, James hopes to contribute more consistently while the Lakers pursue a deep playoff run this season.
Reflecting on a tough January game against the Philadelphia 76ers, where he played 15 minutes off the bench and struggled to score, James recognized the challenges he faces adjusting to the professional level. That game served as a pivotal moment for his development.
Learning from Early Setbacks to Improve Performance
James spoke openly about the Philadelphia game to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, describing it as a clear indicator of where he needs to improve.
“It was definitely like, ‘OK, this is where I stand right now, I need to just be better,’”
James said. He emphasized the steps he plans to take, including extra practice, physical conditioning, and studying film with coaches.
“I need to get in the gym, get extra shots up, work on my body, work on my IQ, watch film, stuff like that with the coaches. So, it was definitely an eye-opener for me,”
he added.
James acknowledged the importance of that experience, calling it
“an experience I definitely should have gone through.”
Signs of Growth from Rookie Season
James highlighted a moment from the NBA Summer League as evidence of his progress. In a game against the Miami Heat, he blocked a shot, pushed the play in transition, and finished strongly at the rim. He compared this to his rookie season, saying,
“Last year, I probably would’ve had a little rim grazer, layup-type of finish.”
This improvement reflects increased confidence and physical readiness on the court.
Ongoing Health Challenges Affecting Conditioning
Bronny James continues to deal with lingering effects from a cardiac arrest he suffered during a summer workout before starting his college career at USC. This serious medical episode delayed his debut for the Trojans and has had lasting impacts, particularly on his conditioning.
“I get kind of sick easier now,”
James shared.
“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.”
Coaching Staff Emphasizes Conditioning as Key Focus
Head coach JJ Redick highlighted conditioning as the biggest obstacle for James to overcome.
“The biggest thing for Bronny is that he has to get in elite shape,”
Redick told ESPN.
“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.”
Redick expressed confidence that James will reach the required fitness level to be effective on both ends of the floor, noting that he is “going to get there” in terms of cardio development.
Balancing Player Development with Lakers’ Immediate Goals
The Lakers face the challenge of integrating Bronny James’ long-term growth with the team’s aim of making a strong playoff push. With the roster increasingly built around Luka Dončić instead of LeBron James, the focus remains on playoff success, which often prioritizes veteran players over younger talent still developing. The recent addition of Marcus Smart adds another experienced guard, making competition for minutes in the backcourt even tougher for James.
Despite these challenges, the Lakers coaching staff continues to believe in Bronny’s potential to contribute meaningfully in the near future.
Looking Ahead: What This Season Could Mean for Bronny James and the Lakers
As Bronny James works on his conditioning and gains more experience, his chance to secure a consistent role for the Lakers could improve. The team’s pursuit of a deep playoff run will test how the coaching staff manages development opportunities amid the urgency to win. The balance between immediate results and nurturing young talent like James will be critical in shaping the Lakers’ season and Bronny’s trajectory in the NBA.