LeBron James’ son Bronny continues to grow both on and off the court, and the Lakers can’t help but take notice. After a challenging rookie season, the 20-year-old guard has been working tirelessly this offseason-adding fuel to the fire over speculation that the Lakers are ready to increase his role.
Bronny’s first taste of the NBA spotlight last year was rocky. He averaged just 2.3 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 0.8 assists in limited minutes-and his shooting struggles resonated: he went 0-for-15 from deep during Summer League play.
Critics and teammates alike questioned whether he was truly earning his spot or benefiting more from his lineage. Still, Bronny bounced back, improving across his final outings with flashes of two-way potential.
This summer, the Lakers are making a bold statement: Bronny is expected to suit up for their Summer League team in Las Vegas. Marc Stein of The Stein Line confirmed that he’ll return on July 10 against the Mavericks.
Last year, he averaged a modest 8.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and one assist over four Summer League games-but notably went cold from beyond the arc before warming up in the final two contests.
Meanwhile, Lakers brass appear more confident than ever. A Western Conference executive reportedly told Athlon Sports that the team is “dead-set” on incorporating Bronny into next season’s rotation. Athlon’s Sean Deveney added that Bronny was notably better late last season-and could earn 10 to 15 minutes per night if he proves it wasn’t a fluke.
A summer of opportunity
This narrative has taken shape both on the court and via social media. Training coach Chris Johnson recently posted a reel of Bronny powering through cardio dunks-and in the clips, LeBron reposted with a proud caption: “It’s happening!! Continue to work Young [prince].”
That six-word message resonated: support from a four-time champion amid the pressure of carving his own path.
The highlight of the summer could come on July 10, when Bronny matches up against No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg in a highly anticipated showdown.
NBA legend Kevin Garnett ignited the hype, reacting on Instagram: “Awwwww s**t… I see that got BRONNY VS THE FLAG… FIRST NIGHT TYPE ISHHHH… the energy in the building is about to be crazy.”
For Bronny, this is more than entertainment-it’s a proving ground. If he can outperform expectations and show consistent improvement, he may fulfill the Lakers’ vision of a rotational guard. At the very least, he’s gained valuable reps, confidence, and trust within the system.
Backed by LeBron’s public encouragement and the team’s endorsement, Bronny’s Summer League run symbolizes a new chapter. The pressure to perform is real-but so is the opportunity. If he finishes strong in Vegas, he may own a role at last and step out from his famous father’s shadow.
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