The Lakers rookie shows major growth despite tough preseason debut
Even after a rough shooting night in the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason opener, Bronny James is earning respect where it matters most: from his head coach.
Following the Lakers’ 103–81 loss to the Phoenix Suns, head coach JJ Redick told reporters that the 20-year-old guard has made huge strides since last season.
Redick: “He’s So Much More Comfortable and Confident”
Redick, entering his second year as Lakers head coach, praised Bronny’s development both on and off the court.
“He is so much more comfortable and confident as a player,” Redick said. “Skill-wise, read-wise, all of those things have improved… He’s a totally different player than he was a year ago.”
Redick credited James’ time in the G League for helping him build confidence and game rhythm. “What he did down there was huge for him in developing a comfort level in playing at this level,” he added.
Learning Through Struggles
Bronny’s stat line wasn’t eye-popping — 8 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists in 24 minutes, while shooting 1-for-12 from the field. But his effort and aggression didn’t go unnoticed.
The young guard drew six free throws, a sign of his willingness to attack the rim even when his jumper wasn’t falling. “I felt like I was getting pretty good looks,” James said postgame. “A lot of them were short — legs just aren’t under me yet.”
That mentality, staying aggressive and not shying away from contact, is exactly what Redick wants to see.
Building on G League Growth
Last season, Bronny’s shot-making was one of the biggest question marks entering the draft. But his time with the South Bay Lakers showed promise: 44.3% from the field and 38.0% from three across 11 G League games.
His NBA minutes, however, were limited, just 181 minutes across 27 games, making it difficult to find consistency. Redick has hinted that this year could be different, with a more defined role and steady playing time once the regular season tips off on October 21.
What’s Next for Bronny
If he continues trending upward, Bronny could emerge as a valuable two-way contributor for a Lakers roster that’s blending veteran stars like LeBron James and Luka Dončić with young talent.
Redick’s praise marks a key vote of confidence and a signal that Bronny’s growth might finally start translating to real impact minutes.
The Lakers open the season on October 21, and all eyes will be on Bronny to see if that “totally different player” shows up when it counts.