Austin Reaves Raves: Bronny Impressing in Lakers' Preseason

Merlin sees Austin Reaves publicly praise Bronny James’ preseason work — “you've been one of the better players out on the floor almost every day” — and that praise matters. Bronny has shown energy and playmaking in camp and the G League (21.9 PPG, 5.4 AST, 38% 3PT in 11 games), but remains streaky from the floor (1-for-12 vs. Phoenix, 2-for-6 vs. Golden State) after a limited rookie season (2.3 points in 6.7 minutes). The Lakers must weigh those flashes against his inconsistency when shaping the rotation. Merlin notes that a veteran’s voice like Reaves’ can buy confidence and opportunity, but the Lakers’ backcourt is crowded. If Bronny tightens his jumper and keeps his defense and playmaking crisp, short bursts could become steady minutes. If not, he stays a developmental piece who swings between South Bay and spot NBA duty.