Bronny James has settled in during his sophomore season.
Bronny James is in his sophomore season with the Los Angeles Lakers and while he's still playing just a handful of minutes per game, James has been finding his stride more as the season has gone on.
James has just been sent down to the South Bay Lakers of the G-League to find his footing and a roster spot for Luke Kennard after the three point specialist came over to Los Angeles in a trade, but James has notably been down in the G-League far less this season far less than when he was a rookie.
With that increased experience at the highest level naturally comes confidence which is crucial for any young player, but especially for James in light of the heavy expectations that come with his last name.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) dribbles and is defended by Washington Wizards guard Sharife Cooper (13) the second half at Capital One Arena. Brad Mills-Imagn ImagesFinding His Comfort
“I feel different, I feel way more comfortable," James said (via The Sporting Tribune). "My team, my teammates believe in me. My coaches believe in me, that’s all I’ve wanted so it’s just good to get out there and take advantage of it.”
James is averaging 2.3 points, 0.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 7.5 minutes per game this season and while his per game stats don't necessarily jump off the page, James' efficiency has stepped up to another level.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) dunks the ball against the Washington Wizards during the second half at Capital One Arena. Brad Mills-Imagn ImagesHe's shooting 4.7% from the field, a 9.4% increase from last season, and a staggering 42.3% from three point range, a 14.2% increase from last season. Those percentages tell a much bigger story than anything his hard numbers could say and it points to what his potential is as a player should he get even more minutes later on.
The belief that both is father and teammate LeBron James has shown in him as well as Lakers head coach JJ Redick has gone a long way for James.
What Comes Next for Bronny?
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) before the jump ball against the San Antonio Spurs during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn ImagesHis increased usage is a show of confidence in the young guard and even if he has a long way to go, his potential at the NBA level is there, especially considering how little development he had at the college level since his college career was cut short due to a heart condition.
James may be back down in the G-League for the time being to continue his development, but with more time James will find his footing more and more and can still prove himself to be a reliable piece of the Lakers bench and a worthy successor to his father's basketball legacy.