After a relatively productive offseason, Lakers fans may start to wonder what next year’s rotation looks like, factoring in both the superstars and the newcomers. Assistant coach Nate McMillan offered high praise for Bronny James, suggesting the team’s top ten is due for a shake-up.
Top Lakers Assistant Offers Encouraging Sign for Bronny James
Nate McMillan on Bronny’s Growth
While appearing on “The Sports Shop with Reese and K-Mac,” McMillan discussed James Jr.’s growth this summer, highlighting his solid stints in both the G League and Summer League and how the former influenced the latter. In 11 games with the South Bay Lakers, he put up 21.5 points (.440/.380/.815 splits), 5.1 rebounds and 5.5 assists. During Summer League (between the California Classic and Las Vegas), James averaged 11.5 points (.476/.300/.786), 2.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists and one steal.
“We’ve seen a lot of growth from year one. He had, I thought, a really good Summer League this year. A young guy like that, coming in with this type of pressure that he came into the league with last year, was unbelievable. When he played in the Las Vegas Summer League last year and this year, his games were sold out to see him. The fan base has really, I think for the most part, been really supportive of him.
“He spent a lot of time in the G League this season, and I really feel that helped him because when he came out into this Summer League and played every game this summer, you could see the confidence. He was much more relaxed than he was last year. And everybody would have been as nervous as could be last season, but he was much more relaxed this season. His shot was never broken, but the confidence, you could see he was knocking down those shots, getting to the basket. Defensively, we wanted him to challenge himself to pick up the ball.”
McMillan also noted the bond between Bronny and LeBron James that set an example for both players and coaches.
“But to see the two of them [LeBron and Bronny] work together, it was amazing. And LeBron as a father, it was amazing. He set that example for all of us. They would be in practice, and they would go at each other, but … LeBron made sure that it was always business when they were on the floor, and that he was setting the example not only for his son but for his team. I love Bronny. Great young man and we expect him to possibly get some minutes this year.”
That last sentence echoes a sentiment delivered earlier in the offseason, when a rival executive claimed the team was “dead set” on including Bronny in the rotation.
Does Bronny Deserve a Rotation Spot?
Bronny clearly made strides this offseason, evidenced by strong Summer League performances. Though his scoring was inconsistent, he showed flashes of being a legit three-level threat, nailing catch-and-shoot threes and stepback midranges while finishing through contact at the rim. And, as McMillan pointed out, James improved as a defender, scratching the surface of one of his offseason goals. It’s all shaping up to be a promising year for Bronny James, who could very well make an impact if given the chance.
However, the Lakers’ buff guard rotation presents a challenging path toward Bronny’s minutes—a dilemma that begins with their starting lineup. If head coach JJ Redick takes an unconventional route and puts Marcus Smart next to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, that could leave the door ajar for Bronny to earn an opportunity. However, he would also have to compete with Gabe Vincent and Dalton Knecht along with staggered stints for Doncic, Reaves or Smart.
Still, James Jr. has exactly what the team’s bench needs as a quick and athletic two-way guard—not to mention his youth at 20 on a somewhat veteran roster. His skills also could mesh well with Rui Hachimura, Jake LaRavia, Jaxson Hayes and Jarred Vanderbilt—all of whom are primed for their own opportunities in the frontcourt. Though there is no shortage of talent between the returners and the new guys, Bronny is ready to thrive under the bright lights next season.
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