When the Los Angeles Lakers drafted Bronny James with the No. 55 overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft, they did so knowing that he would not be a key rotation player as a rookie. That seemed to be lost on many analysts and fans alike.
James was constantly talked about throughout his rookie season. He was judged when he did play, as well as when he didn't.
Despite all of the outside noise, James simply focused on basketball. He showed improvement throughout the season and will be looking to work his way onto the court in year two.
Throughout the course of the 2024-25 season, James played in 27 games and made one start. He averaged 2.3 points, 0.8 assists, and 0.7 rebounds per game. James had his best game on March 20 against the Milwaukee Bucks when he scored 17 points, dished out five assists, and grabbed three rebounds.
Looking ahead to the 2025-26 campaign, one NBA insider believes that James could make a big jump.
As shared by ESPN Los Angeles, Dave McMenamin spoke out and delivered an eye-opening message about James.
"I think he could be a rotation player by mid-season next year," McMenamin said. "He's a 21-year-old kid coming back from a heart attack. He's just developing as a person let alone a basketball player. It's not like he could go somewhere in the shadows and do his work."
McMenamin continued on, talking more about what James went through and sharing more about what he sees in his game.
"It was a spotlight every single moment. He found a way to push through it and had a very successful G League season," he said. "Averaged 21 points per game on good shooting percentages. Certainly, his outside shot needs work because he's going to have to consistently hit the three to get minutes with this group... He's an elite athlete, but his motor is not always in your face... He can really impact the game defensively, too."
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9).
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9).
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
If James can become a rotation player next season, it would be a huge win for the Lakers. He's still just 20 years old.
Los Angeles is sure to have a busy offseason. LeBron James still needs to make his final decision about his future, but the Lakers should have him back along with Luka Doncic and will need to build a better supporting roster around them.