Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James opened up to reporters.
Bronny James Comments on Immediate NBA Future Amid Lakers' Decision originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Los Angeles Lakers tipped off their Summer League campaign against the Golden State Warriors this week in the California Classic, giving fans an early look at their new rookies and fringe roster hopefuls. But one notable name was missing from the lineup on Saturday as Bronny James was sidelined for the team’s opening contest, despite traveling with the team to San Francisco.
The absence didn’t go unnoticed, especially after an offseason filled with buzz about the former USC guard’s development and how quickly he might carve out a role in Los Angeles. It was reported by Sean Deveney of Athlon Sports earlier this offseason that LA is considering him for a rotation role
As LA mulls over this decision, James spoke with reporters prior to the first Summer League game about his mindset going into the new season. James acknowledged that his path to consistent minutes will likely come on the defensive end rather than as an immediate scoring threat.
“There’s gonna be guys that can score 15, 20 a game,” he said (via Dan Woike). “I’m most likely not going to be that guy right now… I’ve got to be a defensive menace."
Bronny knows what it takes to get minutes:
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 6, 2025
“There’s gonna be guys that can score 15, 20 a game. I’m most likely not going to be that guy right now… I’ve got to be a defensive menace.”
(via @DanWoikeSports) pic.twitter.com/URt5rM5shh
James' defensive focus was a highlight of his brief time at USC, and with the Lakers needing depth and energy off the bench, he could earn a place if he sticks to that identity. The Lakers are expected to give him plenty of reps in the coming weeks, but for now, James’ path to regular minutes will depend on proving he can do the gritty work that keeps him on the floor.
In his rookie season, James managed just 6.7 minutes in 27 appearances. He also spent time in the G-League, showing flashes of brilliance, and averaging 21.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.5 assists in 11 regular season games.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Basketball
