His rookie season offered flashes of potential but limited opportunity at the NBA level. Bronny appeared in 27 NBA games during the 2024-25 season, averaging 2.3 points, 0.7 rebounds and 0.8 assists in 6.7 minutes per game while shooting 31.3% from the field and 28.1% from three-point range.
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(Candice Ward-Imagn Images)
Because of that, the expectation around the organization was that his second season would represent a clear step forward. Instead, the campaign has followed a very similar pattern.
Through 31 NBA games this season, James is averaging 2.1 points, 1.2 assists and 0.5 rebounds per game while shooting 39.7% from the field in 7.2 minutes.
Because of the lack of consistent NBA minutes, the Lakers have frequently assigned him to the G-League to ensure he continues getting valuable game reps. In 10 games with the South Bay Lakers during the 2025-26 season, James has averaged 15.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.4 steals, showing far more offensive rhythm and playmaking ability when given extended minutes.
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James was recently recalled to the NBA Monday after the Lakers defeated the New York Knicks. However, on Tuesday, he was dealt more disappointing news as the Lakers re-assigned him again to the G-League ahead of their home game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The latest decision underscores the difficult reality of James’ second season. While the G-League assignments allow him to continue developing, the constant movement between leagues signals that he has not yet earned a consistent role in head coach JJ Redick’s rotation.
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For a player who entered the season hoping to establish himself at the NBA level, the continued lack of playing time, even when active with the Lakers, is reasonably disappointing.
In the meantime, the Lakers appear committed to a long-term development approach with James, giving him opportunities in the G-League while waiting for him to gradually grow into a bigger role at the NBA level.
Update: James was recalled by the Lakers at 2:58 p.m. PT on Tuesday.
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Related: Lakers’ JJ Redick Shares LeBron James Injury Update After Knicks Game
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 10, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.