In the aftermath of the Los Angeles Lakers’ 137-130 win over the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday, LeBron James hyped up Bronny’s performance and what it means for his future in the NBA.
Speaking to The Athletic’s Dan Woike after the victory, LeBron made it clear Bronny is proving “he belongs” in the league now that he is settled into a normal routine in the aftermath of his cardiac arrest in July 2023.
“Especially knowing the path, you know, the road …,” LeBron said “So, just proud of him. I’m super proud of him. And he belongs. He belongs.”
The father-son duo put their dunking skills on display as they helped the Lakers earn their 10th win in the last 11 games.
Bronny’s 13 minutes on Wednesday night were his most for the Lakers since Feb. 10. He was called upon in part because Marcus Smart was unavailable due to an ankle injury.
“Felt like this was a game we really needed him,” head coach JJ Redick said of Bronny’s performance. “It was a game that, you know, his athleticism, his defense…. we saw it last year, and we’re seeing it again this year, just his growth as a player.”
Even though the excitement from fans at seeing LeBron and Bronny dunk in the same game was palpable, Bronny admitted that it’s now starting to feel like old habit as he has settled into his role.
“I’ve been around him and basketball at the same time for a while now, so it’s not that special,” Bronny said. “The first couple times were, of course, but it’s my second year now. And I’m just trying to prove myself.”
LeBron nearly put up a triple-double with 23 points, nine rebounds and nine assists. It was his first time in four games cracking the 20-point barrier.
Playing their final game of a six-game road trip, the Lakers went 5-1 with wins over the Houston Rockets, Miami Heat and Orlando Magic. They remain two games up in the loss column on the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves for the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference.
Given where the Lakers are at in the standings, Bronny may not get as much playing time in a game the rest of this season as he did on Wednesday. But this was a good indication that he can be relied upon off the bench when his number does get called as Redick starts planning his rotations for the postseason.
The Lakers are returning to Los Angeles for a three-game homestand that will begin on Friday against the Brooklyn Nets.