Bronny James has received criticism for his performances in the National Basketball Association (NBA). However, his stats are among the best for players drafted 50th and below in 2024.
James Jr. has averaged 2.3 points per game in the NBA this season. This may be some distance from his father, LeBron James’ 24.7 points per game. However, it is not terrible for a rookie by any means.
Among the players drafted 50th and below in the 2024 NBA Draft, James – the 55th pick overall – has the third-best scoring average in the league. The best belongs to Quinten Post, who has scored 8.5 points per game. Cam Spencer has 4.1 points per game and the next-best average from the 50th pick and below belongs to James Jr.
Bronny James’ G League Brilliance
In the NBA G League, we have consistently seen the best of Bronny James. There, he has averaged 21.9 points, 5.5 assists and 5.2 rebounds per game. These stats are comparable even to Post’s 21.7 points, 11.7 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game.
In the G League, James Jr. has significantly outperformed most of his peers who were picked late in the most recent NBA Draft. For context, Ulrich Chomche – one of the most talented late second-round draft picks of 2024 – averages 8.0 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in the G League.
James Jr. Proving He Belongs in the NBA
Bronny James’ recent performances in the NBA itself have suggested that he is close to ready if not ready to become a permanent fixture of the Los Angeles Lakers (17.39) team. James Jr. had a career-best game against the Milwaukee Bucks recently with 17 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds and a block.
This performance forced even one of his most prominent critics, Stephen A. Smith of ESPN, to concede that James Jr. might just be ready to play in the NBA after all.
“I was very impressed,” Smith said. “I was very impressed because I saw an elevation in his level of confidence and poise. It was like it didn’t faze him. He didn’t look as nervous as he had looked in previous appearances on the basketball court. He looked like somebody that belonged. …
“There were some moves that he put out on the court — ball-handling skills, getting to the basket, finishing at the basket, pulling up for jumpers, hitting a three, 17 points, seven-of-10 shooting from the field — I was impressed.”
Furthermore, Smith claimed: “And if that kind of stuff continues, then indeed he’ll be in the league as a bona fide player sooner than later. One game doesn’t make that determination. You need to do more than that. But I wanted to make sure I emphasized that point.”
Conclusion: A Mixed Bag but Not Doom and Gloom
Bronny James’ rookie season has been a mixed bag, but his progress is undeniable. While his NBA scoring average remains modest, he has outperformed most late second-round picks in his class. His dominance in the G League further highlights his potential, proving he is more than just LeBron James’ son.
His breakout performance against the Milwaukee Bucks showed glimpses of an NBA-ready player, earning praise even from sceptics like Stephen A. Smith. While consistency remains key, James Jr. has demonstrated that he belongs in the league.
If he continues his upward trajectory, he could soon secure a regular spot in the Los Angeles Lakers rotation, silencing his doubters among fans, pundits and online sports betting enthusiasts and carving out his legacy in professional basketball.
