The play that set the tone for Bronny James’ new season wasn’t just a highlight — it was a statement. When Austin Reaves tossed a lob that Bronny hammered home with both hands, the entire Lakers bench erupted. To everyone else, it was his first bucket of the season. To him, it was just another bangout.
“It was just a regular moment for me,” Bronny said during Saturday’s shootaround, as he spoke about the play nearly a week later, per The LA Times. “I want to continue to do that, but I just have to keep giving my all, keep playing hard, running in transition and getting stops on the defensive end for my team.”
The 21-year-old guard is embracing growth and responsibility in his sophomore season. After a challenging rookie year filled with uncertainty, Bronny has leaned into the grind. The Lakers, now shaping their future around Luka Doncic and a youthful roster, see Bronny’s development as part of their long-term vision.
Finding Comfort in the Chaos
The young Laker has made visible strides, especially in his confidence and defensive focus. “I feel like it’s way better, especially the defensive end, holding my own, pushing the pace on the offensive end in transition,” Bronny said, per Fadeaway World. “I feel like I did a great job in the summer getting in shape. JJ has told me that I’m playing as hard as I can right now, so I want to keep doing that.”
His coach, JJ Redick, has rewarded that effort with more minutes. Despite modest numbers — 1.5 points, 0.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game — Bronny’s playing time has nearly doubled to 11.8 minutes. That trust means more opportunities to build rhythm and show maturity on the floor.
The Lakers’ record reflects that progress too. Before a narrow loss to the Hawks, they were riding a five-game win streak and sitting near the top of the Western Conference at 7–3. Even amid injuries, the system appears to be working — and Bronny’s buy-in has been part of that stability.
Growth Beyond the Box Score
While the stat sheet doesn’t tell the full story, the eye test does. Lakers legend James Worthy said on the team’s broadcast that Bronny’s performance in a recent win over Portland was “his best game of his NBA career,” praising his energy and confidence, Bola VP reports.
The 55th overall pick has embraced the role of underdog, using every possession to prove he belongs. He’s not chasing headlines or highlight plays, just steady improvement. “I’m happy with the progress so far,” Bronny shared. “I just want to keep working and helping the team any way I can.”
It’s that quiet, deliberate mindset that’s beginning to define him. As his father’s career enters its twilight, Bronny’s journey is only beginning. Each game, each small win, pushes him closer to carving out his own identity in Los Angeles. And each day he progresses is another day the Lakers improve as a team. They will need all the weapons they can get firing on all cylinders come playoffs.
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