Bronny James’ return to the court didn’t go as he-or Lakers fans-had hoped. A rough performance in the preseason opener against the Phoenix Suns raised concerns, but the young guard remained composed, saying he took “some good shots.”
The game itself was a nightmare for the Lakers. The team shot just 31.1% from the field and a dismal 17.3% from three-point range, falling 103-81 at Heinz Field.
Star players LeBron James and Luka Doncic sat out, and even expected starters like Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton saw limited action.
Head coach JJ Redick relied heavily on his second and third units, but it wasn’t enough to start the preseason with a win. Despite the team’s overall struggles, Bronny has become the focal point of criticism.
Bronny keeps his cool
Fans and analysts have been harsh on Bronny for his poor offensive showing. He went just 1-for-12 from the field and 1-for-8 from beyond the arc. In total, the son of “King” James contributed eight points, five rebounds, and two assists in 24 minutes of play.
Still, Bronny isn’t panicking. “I felt like they were pretty good shots,” he told ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, adding that he wasn’t rushing or forcing anything.
“I didn’t have my legs under me as much as I wanted to, so a lot of them were short,” he explained. “But most of them were on line, and I felt like I could’ve made them. So I think I took some good shots.”
Bronny is no stranger to slow starts-and last season proved that he can bounce back.
History says he gets better
The beginning of the 2024 preseason was also rocky for the Lakers’ sophomore. In his first four professional games, he shot just 2-for-16 from the field, drawing heavy criticism.
But in his fifth game, against the Golden State Warriors, he silenced the doubters-scoring 17 points, grabbing four rebounds, and recording four steals.
Now entering his second NBA season, Bronny must capitalize on the opportunities Coach Redick gives him-or risk another year in the G League.
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