Bronny James Shines Bright in Career-Best Performance Amid Lakers’ Injury Nightmare

LOS ANGELES (AP) — In a game where little went right for the depleted Los Angeles Lakers, Bronny James emerged as a rare bright spot.

With LeBron James sidelined due to a groin injury, his eldest son seized the opportunity to showcase his growth, scoring a career-high 17 points and dishing out five assists in a 118-89 defeat against the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday night. It was Bronny’s most extensive playing time in his young NBA career, and he made the most of it, going 7-of-10 from the field.

The Lakers entered the matchup severely shorthanded, missing their top four scorers. Alongside LeBron, Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves were both out with sprained right ankles, while Rui Hachimura was sidelined with a patella injury. The team’s depth was further strained with key reserves Dorian Finney-Smith (ankle) and Jarred Vanderbilt (groin) also unavailable.

With limited scoring options available, the 20-year-old James stepped up, displaying his confidence and playmaking skills. One of his standout moments came late in the first half when he delivered a pinpoint outlet pass to Markeith Morris for a layup, evoking memories of his father’s signature fast-break assists.

After the game, Bronny emphasized the importance of staying ready for any opportunity.

“Just gaining my confidence and comfortability through reps, getting out there and taking advantage of my opportunity when it comes,” James said. “Being ready at all times is the biggest thing for me.”

This marked the third instance in his rookie season where James had played in at least three consecutive games. His 29 minutes of court time were among the highest on the team, trailing only fellow rookie Dalton Knecht and fourth-year guard Jordan Goodwin.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick has been closely monitoring Bronny’s progress, both in the G League and in his limited NBA minutes.

“We’ve obviously watched his development, and in those late-game situations where he’s had the chance, he’s been really good,” Redick said. “So, I’m not surprised by tonight.”

Redick recalled watching James’ media sessions at the NBA Draft Combine before taking over as Lakers coach.

“I texted Bron and told him, ‘Man, Bronny has his head on straight. He gets it,’” Redick said. “From day one, I’ve been impressed with who he is as a person.”

The coach remains confident in James’ long-term potential, convinced that he belongs at the NBA level.

“It was clear to me from the moment I spent time with him on the court this summer—he’s going to be an NBA player,” Redick said. “And I still believe that. He’ll be an NBA player.”