Bronny James Seems to Find His Footing Against Golden State Warriors

It's pretty safe to say that Bronny James is not set up for success. Selected 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers, his selection and subsequent playing time is justified simply to appease his father, LeBron James, who is arguably the greatest player of all-time.

To his credit, Bronny has the tools to be a successful role player. He can get to the basket fairly well and is a positive defender, but like most second-round picks, he will need time to season. As the clock ticks on his father's career, he will be trotted out for photo opportunities and magical moments, with his career coming second.

Through the Lakers' first five preseason games, the younger James averaged only 1.6 points per game and seemingly couldn't hit the side of a barn. In his first game against the Golden State Warriors on October 15, he went one for five from the floor and finished with only two points in nine minutes. Compared to other outings, it was considered a success.

However, on October 18, James was given the starting nod in the preseason finale against Golden State. In 35 minutes, he finished with a respectable 17 points, four rebounds, three steals, and an assist. He did miss four of his five threes, but he shot a solid 50 percent inside the arc.

The Warriors did manage to blow out Los Angeles, 132-74, and James finished with a plus/minus of -37, but that was to be expected, given that the Warriors played most of their starters, and the Lakers benched pretty much everyone.

Related: LeBron Watches As Warriors Rout Lakers to Remain Undefeated

For James to find success, he will have to spend most of his rookie year in the G League and gain some experience and much-needed confidence.