NBA Trainer Hints Bronny James Will Peak Soon — Lakers Rotation Spot Incoming?

As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up for the upcoming NBA season, all eyes are once again on Bronny James, the 20-year-old guard entering his second year in the league. While the pressure of being the son of LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, has weighed heavily on his young career, recent developments suggest that Bronny may be on the verge of a major leap forward.

In an appearance on The Breakfast Club on September 1, renowned NBA trainer Chris Brickley made headlines by offering high praise for the younger James, stating that he’s “really good” and that fans may soon see just how high his ceiling is. As someone who has trained both LeBron and Bronny James, Brickley’s insights carry real weight.

Bronny James: Carrying a Legendary Name

Since the moment Bronny James stepped onto a basketball court, he’s been under a microscope. As the son of a global sports icon, expectations have been astronomical. Critics have often been quick to compare his every move to that of his father, while fans and analysts alike debate whether Bronny can live up to the James legacy.

But Chris Brickley argues that much of the scrutiny has been unfair. “He didn’t choose to be LeBron’s son,” Brickley said. “He’s actually a great kid. He works hard, he listens, and he’s got real talent.”

Despite a modest rookie year with the Los Angeles Lakers, the foundation is there, and Brickley believes Bronny James’ best basketball is still ahead of him.

Rookie Season: Modest Numbers, Big Lessons

Drafted 55th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, Bronny James entered a crowded Lakers backcourt and found it difficult to secure consistent playing time. In his rookie season, he appeared in 27 games and averaged just 2.3 points in 6.7 minutes per contest. Still, Lakers coaches saw promise.

“I love Bronny. Great young man and we expect him to possibly get some minutes this year,” said Lakers associate head coach Nate McMillan in an August 5 interview. His comments highlighted the coaching staff’s confidence in Bronny’s work ethic and potential.

Summer League Growth Signals a Turning Point

Where Bronny James truly began to change the narrative was in the 2025 NBA Summer League. He averaged 14.2 points on 47.6% shooting, along with 3.8 assists and 2.8 rebounds, a marked improvement from his rookie Summer League averages of 8.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assist on 35% shooting.

“We’ve seen a lot of growth from year one,” said McMillan. “He had a really good Summer League. You could see the confidence. He was much more relaxed than last year.”

The improvement was more than statistical. Observers noted a calmer, more in-control Bronny, one who played with the poise of a seasoned veteran rather than a second-year player trying to find his place.

G League Stint: The Real Breakthrough

One of the most significant factors in Bronny James’ development came from his time in the G League. During his stint there, he averaged 21.9 points per game on a shooting split of 44/38/82, alongside 5.3 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.9 steals over 11 games.

These numbers showcased a player learning how to lead, score efficiently, and impact games on both ends of the floor. Perhaps most importantly, it was during this time that Bronny developed his confidence.

“His shot was never broken,” McMillan added. “But now, the confidence is there. He’s knocking down shots, getting to the basket, and not forcing plays.”

The G League allowed Bronny James to find his rhythm away from the intense spotlight of the NBA, giving him valuable reps and the mental space to grow.

Chris Brickley’s Endorsement: A Peak on the Horizon

The comments from NBA trainer Chris Brickley provide a compelling boost to the growing belief that Bronny James could soon break out. Known for working with many of the NBA’s top talents, including Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Durant, and of course LeBron James, Brickley’s praise isn’t given lightly.

He suggested that Bronny could hit his stride within the next one or two years, calling him “actually really good” and highlighting his work ethic and character.

“People don’t understand what it’s like to live under that kind of pressure,” Brickley said. “He didn’t ask for that spotlight, but he’s handling it better than most people realize.”

Can Bronny Crack the Lakers’ Rotation in Year Two?

As Bronny James prepares for his second NBA season, the biggest question for Lakers fans is whether he can earn a consistent role in the team’s rotation. With veterans like D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Gabe Vincent all fighting for backcourt minutes, breaking into the regular lineup won’t be easy.

But based on his Summer League performance, G League development, and the trust he’s earning from the coaching staff, Bronny may be on the verge of doing just that.

What works in his favor is his defensive potential, basketball IQ, and willingness to play team-first basketball. These traits, combined with his improved scoring ability, make him a strong candidate to become a reliable role player off the bench.

A Story Beyond the Name

The narrative surrounding Bronny James is beginning to shift. While his last name will always be part of the conversation, fans and analysts are starting to focus more on his individual game. He’s no longer just “LeBron’s son”—he’s a young guard who’s working to prove that he belongs in the NBA on his own merit.

There’s a growing sense that Bronny’s breakout is not a matter of ‘if,’ but ‘when.’

And if Chris Brickley is right, that “when” could be coming sooner than many expect.

Conclusion: A Leap Worth Watching

With support from elite trainers, improved play in developmental leagues, and unwavering confidence from his coaching staff, Bronny James enters his second year with more tools and momentum than ever.

The NBA trainer hinting at a major leap for Bronny James is not just offering encouragement—he’s making a bold prediction about the young guard’s future. As the 2025–26 season approaches, Lakers fans will be watching closely to see whether Bronny James can rise to the challenge, earn a spot in the rotation, and begin crafting a legacy that’s uniquely his own.

Whether or not he becomes a star, one thing is clear: Bronny James is ready to take the next step—and the basketball world is paying attention.