Watching Bronny James feels like a science experiment. Why? The intense scrutiny around every move. As LeBron’s son, his game is always under a microscope. Fans, analysts, and scouts don’t just watch his skills—they judge how he stacks up to his father’s legacy. Experts dissect every dribble, shot, or decision-like variable in an experiment. But there’s another side we often miss. The bond between father and son. LeBron watches his son go through relentless scrutiny. It affects him, even if he doesn’t say it. Well, many players face pressure, especially second-draft picks. But with the name ‘James,’ Bronny is always in the spotlight.

Bronny James recently participated in the NBA G League Winter Showcase with the South Bay Lakers. The rookie was playing in his third month of professional basketball. However, the performance was slightly on tragedy’s side; it could’ve been worse, but it certainly could’ve been better. Well, it seemed hard to believe that James Jr. registered a 30-point game vs. the Valley Suns earlier in December!

Nonetheless, in the LA Lakers locker room, his father spoke to the media. LeBron was asked if he watched his son play in Orlando. “How do you think he played and how do you think he’s been doing this season?” The veteran was asked. Following his cardiac arrest on July 24, 2023, Bronny is recovering and trying his best to bring back his game. LeBron James weighed in on how his son’s mental well-being has begun to feel better, as shared by Bronny himself.

The 39-year-old NBA legend shared: “I feel like every opportunity he’s getting to play, he is getting back to himself. Looking more and more comfortable just going out there and just playing off instinct. That’s how he’s always played. And you know, I think you said after one of the games he might been talking either. He said he just mentally starting to feel better after the incident. Everything is starting to come back in shape. To come back in form and he’s just out there just playing. It’s great to see where he is right now.”

Well, on Thursday, Dec.19, the youngster scored 16 points and five assists in the first game of the Showcase. However, his struggles were out and about in the second game with six points, seven assists, and only 6 turnovers. Thus, LeBron James also believes, his son has scope for improvement. James Sr. added, “He has a lot of room for improvement. He’s going to continue to improve because he loves to work and he wants to be a part of the big league. But it was great to see him down in Orlando and I think more importantly, for him in the second game they were able to get a win. I think that was great for him as well.”

So, while the rollercoaster ride continues in his professional career, Bronny continues to be called in by JJ Redick to attend the Lakers games in the NBA. However, is he getting his minutes on the floor? No. And well, history just repeated itself as James Jr. sat on the sideline against the Detroit Pistons on Monday.

Bronny James’ zero minutes guest appearance in Lakers vs. Pistons

In the last seven G League games, James Jr. has struggled with his shooting. He made just 24 of 76 attempts and his turnover rate was also alarmingly high. But there’s a twist—he showed promise in certain moments. In pick-and-roll plays, he looked sharper. Especially when he started with a hard dribble left around the screen. These flashes hint at untapped potential and as promised, the 20-year-old shooting guard is doing his two-way duties for Los Angeles. But, it’s the playing minutes that should be a new concern now. He’s either playing in garbage minutes or not playing at all.

Bronny James got the call-up from the Lakers’ G League affiliate to join the NBA team for their game against the Detroit Pistons. But he didn’t play—a classic DNP coach’s decision. The Lakers lost 117-114, leaving questions about what could have been. Meanwhile, LeBron James played, tallying 28 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists. He missed a 3-pointer at the buzzer that would have forced overtime.

In the G League, James is currently averaging 13.4 points, 3.4 assists, and 1.3 steals over seven games, shooting a rough 21% from deep. The potential is there, but the spotlight is unforgiving. But Bronny has also been battling a bone bruise in his left heel. And, the Lakers are handling it with extra care. Why? It’s the same leg he had surgery on in high school for a torn meniscus. The past and present collide, making every step a delicate move.

Bronny’s journey is a mix of promise and pressure, with each game adding to his story. The flashes of brilliance hint at what’s to come, but the road is far from smooth. He’s battling injuries, expectations, and limited minutes—all while carrying the weight of the James name. Yet, resilience runs in the family, and he isn’t backing down. The experiment continues, and the next chapter is anyone’s guess.