Bronny James Faces Challenges Ahead of Lakers’ Showdown with Warriors
As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up for their third preseason game against the Golden State Warriors this Sunday, the spotlight is squarely on Bronny James. Despite the high expectations surrounding him, the young guard has yet to leave a mark in the early stages of the preseason.
Struggles in Early Games
Selected as the No. 55 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Bronny’s transition to the professional level has been rocky. In the 2024-25 regular season, he participated in only 27 games, averaging a modest 2.3 points per outing. His shooting percentage of 31.3% from the field over 6.7 minutes per game illustrates the uphill battle he faces in carving out a consistent role on the Lakers.
Highlight Moments Amidst Challenges
While his contributions have been limited, there have been glimpses of promise. One standout performance occurred against the Milwaukee Bucks on March 20, where he logged 30 minutes on the court. In that game, he registered 17 points, hitting 7 of 10 shots from the field, including 2 of 4 from beyond the arc. He also tallied five assists, three rebounds, and one block, showcasing his potential to impact the game when given the opportunity.
Development Through the G League
Last season, Bronny demonstrated flashes of what he could become while playing for the G League’s South Bay Lakers. His time in the developmental league provided him with essential experience and the chance to refine his skills. It would not be surprising to see him return there intermittently as he continues to grow in his role with the Lakers.
With the preseason well underway, all eyes will be on how Bronny performs against the Warriors. The upcoming game presents an opportunity for him to build momentum and gain the confidence needed to navigate the challenges of the NBA.
