Bronny James struggles in preseason with Lakers despite golden sneakers

The Los Angeles Lakers preseason is off to a rough start, and Bronny James isn’t immune to the turbulence. The sophomore had two contrasting outings in recent losses to the Phoenix Suns (103-81) and Golden State Warriors (111-103).

Concerning shooting stats but encouraging activity

Against the Suns in Palm Desert, Bronny James had a nightmare statistical evening: 1/12 from the field and 1/8 from 3-point range in 24 minutes. Despite wearing golden sneakers for the occasion, the young guard couldn’t find his shot. « I didn’t force it, didn’t rush. My legs weren’t really there, so many shots came up short, but they were on target, » explained LeBron’s son to justify his performance.

Against the Warriors, the former USC player showed a more balanced performance with 5 points on 2/6 shooting, 2 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal in 22 minutes, highlighted by a spectacular dunk in the fourth quarter. A showing that demonstrates his ability to adapt despite the difficulties encountered.

Bronny James gets UP for this putback slam ‼️

He finds an opening and punches it home with one hand! pic.twitter.com/Uo7ok7FWCK

— NBA (@NBA) October 6, 2025

The entire Lakers team suffered from similar issues: 31.1% overall shooting and 17.1% from 3-point range against Phoenix, without LeBron James (load management) or Luka Dončić (rest) to structure the offense. This situation put more pressure on young players like Bronny.

JJ Redick remains confident despite statistics

Lakers coach JJ Redick hasn’t panicked about his young player. The coach emphasized that Bronny is « more comfortable and confident » than a year ago, noting the gap between progress seen in practice and G-League versus the reality of NBA 5-on-5.

Bronny James pull up middy! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/4c4GK3uCrY

— BricksCenter (@BricksCenter) October 6, 2025

Redick prioritizes evaluating defensive impact and discipline in role player duties, believing shooting will naturally follow if mechanics stay sound. ESPN and other media have confirmed this approach, validating the player’s progress despite his 8.3% success rate from mid and long range against the Suns.

Bronny James showed encouraging signs in his overall activity against Phoenix: 8 points total, 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 5/6 from the free throw line. He found his rhythm in Lakers’ second unit sequences, with smart cuts, pick-and-roll plays and technically sound catch-and-shoot attempts.

« The shots were good. Not rushed, not forced… just didn’t have the legs, » Bronny James summarized to the press. In a preseason where Redick manages LeBron and distributes responsibilities, the young guard knows his development depends on individual defense, transition play and shot selection – aspects that don’t solely rely on outside shooting.