Lakers' Bronny James has big shoes to fill in LA: What to expect in Year 1

Entering the 2024 NBA Draft, the whole league was aware of the Los Angeles Lakers' interest in selecting Bronny James.

On draft night, general manager Rob Pelinka turned LeBron James’ dream into a reality. Now with the father-son duo finally on the same team, the youngest James will have quite the shoes to fill in LA. So what should we expect in year one for the USC draftee?

James played one season at USC following a scare in an offseason workout with the team. Despite the scare, the two-way guard defied odds and still managed to suit up in 25 games and six starts for the Trojans. James averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists on 36.6% shooting from field goal range. Although the stats aren’t flashy, Los Angeles opted to roll the dice on the 19-year-old project and give him the chance to develop behind his father.

Now, entering year one, it’s hard to put expectations on James following the second-round pick signing a four-year guaranteed contract. While most second-round picks typically sign two-way deals to begin their professional journey, James’ agent, Rich Paul, indicated that the only contract his client would sign would be a guaranteed deal, and that he did.

Although James avoided a two-way contract, it doesn’t mean the talented guard won’t spend the majority of his time in the G-League developing. After averaging 8.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and one assist through four games of the Summer League, it’s evident James still has plenty of room for improvement despite fans expectations set simply by who his father is.

James will likely play the majority of the season with the South Bay Lakers, barring a huge showing in camp and preseason. Nonetheless, James will travel to some games with the Lakers and may get a chance to suit up in blowout games or matchups where Los Angeles is shorthanded.

All things considered, year one expectations for James should be tempered until the USC alum gets more time to develop.

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