It may not be the biggest story of this Lakers season, but one of the highlights has been Bronny James’ development.
He played in 42 games for LA and his best basketball came during the final games of the regular season, when the Lakers needed him to step up with Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves out.
Over the last six contests, Bronny averaged 7.2 points while playing 16.9 minutes per game.
With the playoffs set to begin, Lakers head coach JJ Redick discussed how Bronny has developed and how he needs to stay
ready for playoff minutes against the Rockets.
“We’re gonna have to have all hands on deck for the series,” Redick said after Lakers practice on Wednesday. “He’s got to be ready. Nick [Smith Jr.] will have to be ready. I think Bronny’s improved a lot. I think we trust him. The shooting piece, I’m a believer in, because of how well he shot it in the last two years in the G League.
“I know there was a stretch recently where he didn’t shoot it well and of course, he had a nice shooting game against Utah. He’s improved a ton defensively in terms of his body positioning, both on and off ball. We want him to continue to evolve as a disruptive defender as well.”
Last year, Bronny only touched the floor during the playoffs in garbage time. If he plays real minutes against Houston, that would be tremendous growth for the two-year guard, considering that he was a late second-round pick back in 2024.
Until the series starts, we won’t know if Bronny is automatically part of the rotation or if he’s a player waiting on the bench for an opportunity to come. Given they are shorthanded in the backcourt and Bronny has improved his play as of late, he is likely to get some run against the Rockets.
Due to his current form, it’s clear he’s gained more trust from Redick. And now, the thought of him playing in the postseason is not only realistic but sensible.
Three of Bronny’s four double-digit scoring games have come this April, and if he can show that consistency, knocking down shots and being a positive defender on the floor this postseason, that gives LA another guard they can use.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
