Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick believes conditioning is the key to unlocking Bronny James’ long-term NBA upside.
Speaking to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Redick said, “The biggest thing for Bronny is that he has to get in elite shape. That’s the barrier of entry for him right now.”
James, 20, completed his rookie season in limited minutes with the Lakers, appearing in 27 games and averaging 2.3 points in 6.7 minutes per contest.
Redick referenced the physical demands of impact guards such as Davion Mitchell and T.J. McConnell—players who stay locked into every possession with energy on both ends.
“On every single possession, they’re in the game,” Redick said. “Offensively or defensively — they’re able to impact it with how hard they play.”
According to the Lakers’ coach, Bronny has shown flashes of that level of activity, but he must increase his stamina to play with the same consistency.
“To get to that next level for him, it’s cardio fitness,” Redick said. “He’s cleared… he’s going to get there.”
James was selected with the No. 55 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, joining his father LeBron James to form the league’s first-ever father-son duo.
His rookie campaign included assignments to the South Bay Lakers in the G League, where he averaged 18.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists over 18 games.
James has returned to play in the 2025 Summer League, where he has averaged 14.3 points, 3.8 assists, and 2.8 rebounds over four games while shooting 47.6% from the field.
Though his three-point percentage remained low at 30.0%, the improved scoring and playmaking hint at progress in his development.
For Redick and the Lakers, the next step is ensuring Bronny’s conditioning allows him to maintain that level of performance across a full season.
