Los Angeles Lakers 2024 second-round pick Bronny James didn't make an impact in his preseason debut against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, but he did enough to earn praise from his head coach.

After James scored two points, one rebound, one assist and a game-high three blocks in 16 minutes of play in a 124-107 loss, Lakers first-year head coach JJ Redick said he was impressed with the 19-year-old's defensive performance Effect.

“He can do some things defensively at his size that are really unique, and I think he can develop into a really disruptive defender,” Redick said, according to Dave McMenamin of ESPN. “It showed.”

James shot just 1 of 6 from the field, but didn't let his offensive woes slow him down at the other end of the court. His first taste of NBA action came as his legendary father, Lakers star LeBron James, watched from the bench.

Although the young man still has areas that need further development, Redick added that he has been encouraged by what he has seen so far and also praised him for his attitude.

“He’s still figuring out who he is on offense. That’s our job as a player development program, just to build him up,” Redick said. “But honestly, it’s so easy to train him. He has a great soul. And he just radiates a great energy program.”

The Lakers will play their second preseason game against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday and Redick said he expects LeBron to be active, which could be the first time the father-son duo appears in a game together.