The pain of growing up by Bronny James
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The Los Angeles Lakers’ 2024 draft picks are experiencing vastly different trajectories. While rookie guard Dalton Knecht is lighting up the NBA with record-breaking performances, Bronny James is struggling to find his rhythm, raising questions about his readiness for the professional stage.
Dalton Knecht: A Rising Star
Selected 17th overall out of Tennessee, Dalton Knecht has proven to be an immediate asset for the Lakers. The SEC Player of the Year has seamlessly transitioned to the NBA, showcasing a versatile game and sharp shooting skills.
Key Stats:
- 11.2 points per game
- 50.4% shooting from the field
- 2.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game
Knecht’s impact extends beyond the box score. He tied the rookie record for most three-pointers in a game (9) and played a pivotal role in the Lakers’ six-game winning streak earlier this season. Anthony Davis praised his fearlessness, saying:
“He can do more than just shoot. But he’s really good at shooting the basketball. We get mad at him when he doesn’t shoot.”
Bronny James: Growing Pains
In stark contrast, Bronny James, the 55th overall pick, has struggled to make his mark. His stats reflect the challenges of adapting to the NBA:
- 0.7 points per game
- 16.7% shooting in limited minutes
Bronny’s unconventional arrangement of splitting time between G-League home games and the NBA roster has also drawn criticism. Charles Barkley was outspoken on The Bettor Angle, calling the setup “awful” and questioning its fairness to both Bronny and the team.
Barkley’s Take:
“This thing where he’s only gonna play home games? It’s stupid… You come off a road trip and have a player you haven’t seen in weeks. And then you probably feel like you gotta play him.”
Bronny’s modest college stats at USC (4.8 points, 2.1 assists, 2.8 rebounds) haven’t translated well to the pro level, and even in the G-League, he’s averaging just 5.0 points in 28.5 minutes per game.
NBA 2K25 Ratings Reflect Reality
The gap between the two rookies is even visible in NBA 2K25, where Knecht boasts a 70 rating, tied for 16th among rookies. Bronny, meanwhile, starts at 68, reflecting his developmental challenges.
What’s Behind the Contrast?
Knecht’s success underscores the value of experience. The 23-year-old spent three years honing his skills in college, making him NBA-ready. Bronny, at 19, entered the league with less polish, and the Lakers’ attempt to accelerate his development may be counterproductive.
Key Takeaways:
- Dalton Knecht’s Impact: Knecht’s college experience has allowed him to contribute immediately, providing shooting and versatility to the Lakers’ lineup.
- Bronny James’ Struggles: Bronny’s limited minutes, unconventional schedule, and lack of readiness have raised questions about the Lakers’ approach to his development.
- The Bigger Picture: The Lakers must balance nurturing Bronny’s potential with ensuring the team’s immediate success.
Looking Ahead
While it’s too early to predict either player’s long-term trajectory, the Lakers face a crucial decision: how to manage Bronny’s development while maximizing the impact of players like Knecht. The contrast between the two rookies serves as a reminder that experience and readiness are key to thriving in the NBA.
