This summer, the standout player in a Los Angeles Lakers uniform was Darius Bazley. Although he was the 23rd overall pick previously and spent a season playing in China, Bazley’s performances in the Las Vegas Summer League and California Classics suggest he’s primed for another NBA opportunity. Not only did he deliver a 27-point double-double in the final California Classics game against the Spurs, but his defensive prowess has been even more impressive. Bazley possesses elite athleticism, an ideal wing size, and a wingspan of 7 feet, allowing him to be a dynamic presence on the court. In a recent game against the Pelicans in New Orleans, he recorded five blocks and two steals, helping the Lakers secure a win.
But how does Bazley’s performance relate to Bronny James? While Bazley shines as a summer league standout, Bronny James is also competing in the same summer league class, though his trajectory differs. High-profile top picks like Cooper Flagg have lower stakes in summer leagues, but for second-round picks, undrafted players, and experienced journeymen, these games are crucial to carve out a specific role rather than chase stardom. Bazley is succeeding in that pursuit. Conversely, while Bronny has shown meaningful growth since last summer and glimpses of NBA-level play, his development is not as pronounced as Bazley’s. His strengths in the summer league include good ball control, improved decision-making in pick-and-rolls, and helping keep the Lakers’ offense flowing smoothly.
Lakers Summer League coach Lindsay Harding expressed confidence in Bronny’s ball-handling and decision-making in critical moments. Bronny has averaged 22 points and five assists in Las Vegas so far. However, even if he earns meaningful minutes, the Lakers have strong guards like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, as well as his father, LeBron James, on the roster, which limits Bronny’s playing time opportunities. For Bronny to secure minutes, he must improve his three-point shooting and defense. So far, his three-point consistency is lacking—he shot 38% in 11 G-League games last season but has struggled at the NBA level and during his college tenure at USC. Proving his shooting ability remains a key hurdle.
Bronny’s game has evolved into a 3-and-D role, focusing on three-point shooting and defense, though his defensive effectiveness is limited by his height at 6-foot-2 despite a long wingspan. Comparing him to his draft peer Jamal Shedd, who possesses exceptional intensity and strength despite being smaller, Bronny’s defensive impact doesn’t yet stand out. In contrast, Bazley’s defensive versatility is a major asset, as he can guard multiple positions effectively—a trait the Lakers desperately need after losing Keldon Johnson in free agency.
However, the Lakers currently cannot sign Bazley to a contract due to cap restrictions and his five years of NBA experience, making him ineligible for a two-way deal. The team cleared a roster spot by waiving Shake Milton but is expected to use it for veteran players, especially defensive-minded guards or wings like De’Anthony Melton. To keep Bazley, the Lakers would likely need to clear more roster space, possibly by trading multiple players with expiring contracts for a single wing, with Andrew Wiggins often mentioned in such discussions. No such trade seems imminent, meaning Bazley could be signed by another team.
Bazley represents the Lakers’ trend of acquiring original first-round picks who didn’t thrive with initial teams but show promise in summer leagues. His performance raises the question: what is Bronny James’ current standing? A year ago, Bronny’s roster spot was seen as part of the package linked to his famous father. Yet with LeBron’s Lakers tenure seemingly nearing its end, Bronny will soon be evaluated on his own merit in a high-stakes NBA environment.
Without the spotlight of his famous name, Bronny is now a second-round pick trying to find a clear NBA role. Some second-rounders need time to develop, and success stories like Guerschon Yabusele show that finding the right fit is critical. For now, as LeBron remains with the Lakers, Bronny is likely to stay too, with hopes he earns more floor time. He carries promise beyond just being an NBA “nepo baby,” but judging from recent Lakers moves, it’s hard to argue he has surpassed Bazley in readiness. In a different scenario, Bronny might even be a trade chip to make room for Bazley, but that seems unlikely now, placing added pressure on Bronny. With LeBron’s Lakers era winding down, Bronny must prove he belongs or risk losing his roster spot.
Fan Take: This offseason story highlights the tough reality for young players like Bronny James trying to carve out their own identity in the NBA while living in the shadow of a superstar parent. Meanwhile, players like Darius Bazley remind basketball fans that persistence and versatility can create new opportunities—underscoring the ever-evolving battle for NBA roster spots and the importance of seizing moments in summer league showcases.
