Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James is making a name for himself during the preseason through his defense, drawing frustration from teammates Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves during training sessions, basketball-world.news reported.
Entering his third year in the league following 69 regular-season appearances and 10 playoff games across his first two seasons, James remains with the Lakers while his father, LeBron James, pursues his career elsewhere. In practice at the team’s facility, the 21-year-old guard has focused heavily on applying full-court ball pressure against the franchise’s established primary scorers.
Defending Doncic and Reaves in Lakers Training
“They go on my nerves,” Austin Reaves said regarding the defensive intensity brought by James, alongside newcomers Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams, and Adou Thiero. “You have to work so hard.”
For his part, James views the daily matchups against elite offensive talent as essential for his individual development on the defensive end of the floor.
“They are so talented,” James said. “I think it’s great, because every day going up against two of the best offensive players in the NBA prepares you—prepares all of us, but me especially—for what to expect. It’s going to make me better on defense just by hounding them the full length of the floor. They get on my nerves, and they get mad at me in practice. If I just keep doing that, I’m definitely going to get better.”
Expanding Responsibilities as a Point Guard
Beyond his defensive assignments, James is actively working to develop his playmaking repertoire to provide stability running the offense, according to the Los Angeles Times. The young guard aims to orchestrate sets and guide teammates into proper floor spacing.
“Cheering my guys on, getting them in the right spots and so on, making sure we’re well organized,” James said of his evolving role. “That’s what a point guard is all about. You have to talk to your teammates and help them get to where they need to be.”
The Lakers continue their preparations ahead of the upcoming regular season schedule, with James competing for a clearer rotation role under the coaching staff.
