What should Lakers, fans expect from Bronny James as he enters third NBA season?

Bronny James is set to make his third season with the Los Angeles Lakers, marking his first season not playing alongside his father, LeBron. This change offers him the chance to establish his own role in the team. Coaches, including JJ Redick, have expressed confidence in Bronny's progress since being drafted by the Lakers in 2024 as the 55th overall pick.

During Friday's preseason finale, where the Lakers lost 121-106 to the Denver Nuggets, James showed limited scoring ability, recording just one three-point attempt, one rebound, and one assist in 12 minutes of play. However, Redick acknowledged that James had performed well during the preseason and in practices, attributing his lackluster performance to rhythm and the team he is playing with.

As a rookie, James only played 6.7 minutes per game and averaged 2.3 points over 27 games. Last season, he improved to 2.9 points and 1.2 assists in 42 games. This season, with his contract fully guaranteed by the Lakers, James is expected to make $2.3 million, the third year of a four-year deal signed in 2024. The team believes in his potential to become a quality defensive player and continue developing his role with Los Angeles.