A Strong Preseason Showing
Bronny James has been impressing fans during the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason games. In the Lakers’ second preseason game against the Golden State Warriors, Bronny was given a starting role. He played 21 minutes. While he did not fill the stat sheet with scoring, his overall play and comfort on the ball caught the attention of fans. He finished with four points on 2-for-5 shooting. He also handed out five assists. That showed his growth as a passer and ball-carrier.
The Play That Stood Out
One play in particular got people talking. Bronny ran a smooth pick-and-roll with Kevon Looney. He used the screen to create space and then knocked down a mid-range shot with ease. That kind of play is not something fans saw from him in his rookie season. It showed that his handling and decision-making have improved. Fans took to social media to share their thoughts. One fan wrote that Bronny has a real bag now. Another said the slow cook is working. A third fan said he has definitely been getting better and could make a real impact if he gets more minutes this year.
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The LeBron Factor
Many fans believe LeBron James’ departure has helped Bronny. LeBron signed with the Philadelphia 76ers in the offseason. That means Bronny is no longer playing on the same team as his famous father. One fan said that is what happens when a player is given time to develop without the pressure of playing alongside a Hall of Fame father. Another fan suggested LeBron was holding Bronny back. A few fans even got carried away. One said Bronny is going to be a starter by the end of the year. Another claimed Bronny now has a better pull-up mid-range jumper than his father.
A Note of Caution
Not everyone is ready to crown him. One fan pointed out that the Lakers were down 20 points in an empty arena, and the mid-range shot was one of only two baskets Bronny made all night. That is a fair point. Preseason games are not the same as regular-season games. The level of competition and intensity is different. Bronny James still has a lot to prove. But the overall feedback has been positive. Fans are seeing progress. They are seeing a player who looks more confident and comfortable with the ball in his hands.
What This Means for Bronny’s Future
Bronny James is entering his third year in the NBA. The Lakers have taken a patient approach with him. That approach seems to be paying off. If he continues to improve, he could earn more minutes this season. He may not become a starter right away, but he can become a valuable rotation player. The Lakers will need depth in the backcourt.
Bronny has the opportunity to show he can contribute. For now, fans are excited about what they are seeing. The slow cook is working. And with LeBron no longer on the team, Bronny has a chance to build his own identity. The coming season will be important for his development. If he keeps working, he could surprise people.