The Los Angeles Lakers secured their first victory of 2024 in a thrilling summer league encounter by edging out the Atlanta Hawks 87-86. The game was a nail-biter, marked by clutch performances and strategic defensive plays.
Rookie Presence: Bronny James Steps Up
Making headlines was rookie guard Bronny James, who played a pivotal role in the Lakers' victory. James, the 55th overall pick in the 2024 draft, had shown flashes of potential throughout the summer league, despite a challenging start. Averaging 4.3 points and missing all 15 of his three-point attempts in the first four games, James faced intense scrutiny and pressure.
However, this game was different. James began by sinking a 17-foot pull-up jumper, setting the tone for what could be a breakout performance. He finished with 12 points, nine of which came in the first half. Overall, he made 5-of-11 field goal attempts, including 2-of-5 from beyond the arc, a significant improvement in his shooting. Crucially, James hit a three-pointer late in the game to tie the score, underscoring his growing confidence and poise under pressure.
"My mom, my dad really help me, encouraging me to stay focused and keep being myself. So I feel like that's a big part of how I came out [tonight]," James reflected post-game, shedding light on the personal support fueling his gameplay.
"Just stay aggressive. Even though my shot hasn't been falling, just staying aggressive," he added, emphasizing the mental tenacity he’s developing.
Veteran Support and Team Dynamics
Veteran center Colin Castleton also had a standout performance, scoring 17 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, dishing out six assists, and making two steals. Castleton’s all-round display was crucial in anchoring the Lakers on both ends of the court.
"I think he's stepping into a good role. It takes a little bit of time. He has a lot of pressure, a lot of things on him. So he has a great mindset. He's a great kid, great teammate, and we love being around him. Everybody in the organization loves being around him and he took great shots tonight and just got a good rhythm," Castleton said of James, highlighting the team's collective faith in the young rookie.
Notably, the Lakers’ first-round draft pick Dalton Knecht, and the Hawks’ No. 1 overall pick Zacharie Risacher, did not participate in the game. Their absences added a layer of intrigue and speculation about future matchups.
End of a Losing Streak
This victory ended a five-game losing streak for the Lakers, a morale-boosting turnaround as they continue their campaign in the summer league. The game was clinched with a critical defensive stop in the closing seconds, demonstrating the team’s collective grit and determination.
Assistant coach Dane Johnson echoed this sentiment, particularly in relation to James’s performance. "He had those same shots previously, and he just missed them. So, we're going to encourage him to keep taking those. If he's open and we have an open catch-and-shoot [shot], we want him to shoot those, along with everybody else. Open catch-and-shoot threes are what we're looking for. Even if you're not making them, believe in yourself, have confidence in yourself."
Social Media Buzz
The buzz in and around the Lakers didn’t stay confined to the court. A social media post caught the attention of many, showing Jaylen Brown apparently critiquing Bronny during the Lakers' loss to the Boston Celtics. Rich Paul, Bronny's agent, was quick to downplay any negative connotation.
"You can't take everybody's opinion and try to turn it against him or think that he's a bad person. At least [Brown] is someone who is actually in the league. There's a lot of 'experts' with no expertise; he's actually an expert with expertise. So, if he has that opinion, he can have that opinion. I know Jaylen. I know he doesn't mean that with any malice. He was just having a conversation," Paul clarified.
Looking Forward
The Lakers have two more scheduled games in Las Vegas against the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Chicago Bulls. As the summer league progresses, all eyes will be on Bronny James and whether he can build on this performance.
"I feel like playing together [and] going to work together every day is just going to build on the relationship we already have. Build that connection, maybe even stronger. But I'm excited to get to work with my dad," Bronny mentioned, hinting at a deep familial bond that could be integral to his success.
For now, the Lakers and their fans can bask in the glow of a hard-fought, confidence-boosting victory, with a keen eye on the road that lies ahead.