Watch: LeBron James seemingly stone-faced after Bronny James makes his only shot in 6 attempts

The Los Angeles Lakers' preseason opener ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season featured several key storylines, with none more anticipated than the debut of LeBron James' son Bronny James. The Lakers endured a 124-107 blowout loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California, as Bronny delivered a mixed performance.

The former USC guard had difficulty finding his offensive rhythm throughout the game. Just when it seemed the 19-year-old might go scoreless, he managed to notch his first basket, albeit in garbage time with the outcome already decided.

With under a minute left in the game, Bronny drove into the paint and completed a left-handed layup. After missing his first five attempts, the Lakers rookie finally got on the scoreboard.

Bronny's basket was greeted with loud cheers from the crowd, but his father LeBron James, who was seated on the bench, showed little reaction. LeBron remained expressionless after his son made the layup.

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Despite his offensive struggles, Bronny didn't let it affect his defensive effort. In 16:04 minutes of play, the rookie scored two points, shooting 1-of-6 from the field, including 0-of-1 from three-point range.

What stood out to fans was his hustle and commitment on defense. The former USC guard recorded three blocks, including a highlight-worthy chase-down block in transition.

Coach JJ Redick happy with Bronny James' progress

JJ Redick, coaching his first NBA preseason game on Friday, reflected on Bronny James' performance afterward. The former NBA sharpshooter expressed satisfaction with Bronny's progress and shared his plans for developing the 19-year-old rookie moving forward.

"We're really happy with his progress," Redick said.

"The kid, you know, he can do some things defensively at his size that are really unique and can I think turn him into a really disruptive defender and that kind of manifested, he added.

Coach Redick also addressed Bronny's offensive struggles, which extend beyond the game against the Timberwolves. During the 2024 NBA Summer League, Bronny shot 14-of-40 from the field and 3-of-19 from three-point range over four games.

Redick emphasized that it is the responsibility of the Lakers' coaching staff to help develop the rookie's offensive game moving forward.

"On the offensive end, he's still trying to kind of find out who he is, and that's our job as a player developmental program just to build him up ... I liked what I say from Bronny, truth of the fact, he's so easy to coach," added Redick.

Bronny will be back in action when the Lakers face the Phoenix Suns on Monday. LeBron James and Anthony Davis are also expected to play in the Lakers' upcoming game.