Rob Pelinka says Lakers believe Bronny James can become ‘elite shot maker’

Bronny James being the guy the Lakers go to in big moments is something the franchise can see happening.

Optimism is about having hopefulness and confidence about the future.

So when the Lakers selected Bronny James with the No. 55 pick in the NBA Draft, it wasn’t because of what he is but what he might be.

After all, Bronny had a modest freshman season, averaging just 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game in 19.3 minutes per game.

He also shot only 26.7% from the field, but given his late start at USC due to his cardiac arrest, the hope is that now that he’s healthy, he can turn into an NBA player with the proper development.

Vice president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka addressed these concerns and what he sees Bronny turning into during his press conference immediately following the draft.

“We’ve really seen growth in his shooting,” Pelinka said. “I think at the combine when we were there with the scouting staff, he was one of the leaders in making his shots in some of the drills. We really think he can turn into being an elite shot-maker.”

That’s a strong statement for a player who hasn’t shown that ability in college, but he will have all the support he needs in Los Angeles.

His father is LeBron James, who knows a thing or two about playing in the NBA and Lakers head coach JJ Redick is known for his basketball IQ, so hopefully, he can help unlock Bronny’s full potential.

At the time of publishing this article, Lebron has opted out of his contract, but if he returns to the Lakers as expected, it’ll be the first time a father-son duo plays together in the NBA when Bronny and the King touch the floor at the same time.

Basketball and winning have to be the priority given LeBron’s age, but the fact this will happen is NBA history and objectively a cool moment.

However, patience will be needed when it comes to Bronny’s development.

Remember, he was drafted at the end of the second round and is a work in progress more so than a finished product.

Still, the Lakers have demonstrated a knack for developing players and if they can turn Bronny into an elite shot maker and a rotation player, their selection of him at No. 55 will be viewed as a tremendous pick years from now.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88.