After a rookie year that saw limited opportunities and production for the Los Angeles Lakers, James has capitalized on the summer stage, emerging as a more confident and assertive guard.

His most recent outings have marked a clear turning point. Against the Boston Celtics, James led the Lakers in scoring with a Summer League best 18 points, adding five assists, three rebounds, and a steal in 28 minutes of play.

He shot an efficient 7-of-13 from the field and 3-of-4 from the free throw line, continuing to exhibit growing comfort attacking the basket and facilitating for teammates. Despite the Lakers’ 87-78 loss and a season-high eight turnovers for James, his aggressive playmaking remained a bright spot.

Standout Performances and Development

James’s breakthrough came earlier in the week during a game against the Clippers, where he posted 17 points, five rebounds, and five assists, shooting 6-of-10 and connecting on 3-of-5 attempts from three-point range.

This outing was lauded as his most complete and assertive to date, highlighted by a quick start—he notched 12 first-half points, including a trio of threes. His poise as both a primary scorer and secondary ball-handler was evident, with observers taking note of improved shot selection and greater physicality on defense.

A similar level of performance was on display against New Orleans, where he tallied 14 points, three assists, two steals, and a block in 24 minutes. James displayed increased aggression toward the rim, sharper passing, and disruptive defensive energy, underscoring his development into a potential two-way contributor.

What’s Next for Bronny and the Lakers

While James is still inconsistent at times, particularly in limiting turnovers and finding his perimeter shooting rhythm (he’s shooting below 20% from three over the full Summer League slate), his confidence and all-around game show substantial growth compared to his first year as a pro.

He remains behind other Lakers prospects on the depth chart, but his string of quality performances has kept him firmly in the conversation as a long-term development piece.

Coaches and scouts note that James is benefiting from extended minutes and the opportunity to play through mistakes, helping to sharpen both his decision-making and confidence on the court.

With LeBron James watching from courtside as an enthusiastic supporter, Bronny’s ongoing improvement has energized the Lakers’ summer campaign and raised hopes for his continued ascent heading into training camp.

James’s Summer League run reinforces that, while he may not be ready for regular rotation minutes in L.A. just yet, he is taking important steps toward becoming an NBA-caliber reserve, with flashes of dynamic two-way potential that are impossible to overlook.