This summer, the Lakers underwent a massive roster overhaul, leaning towards youth and athleticism. While many players have left, including LeBron James, one who remains on the Lakers is his son, Bronny James.
Considering that the guard has developed well over the last few seasons and even had some strong shifts in the playoffs against the Rockets, it’s no surprise he remains part of this new Lakers roster.
Some people might still believe he will ultimately be traded to whatever team LeBron plays for,
but according to a recent report by Dan Woike of The Athletic, that would be a foolish assumption.
“While LeBron and Bronny playing together as teammates was one of the more incredible storylines following the 2024 NBA Draft, assumptions that the father and son staying linked going forward are false, according to league sources who were granted anonymity to discuss front-office strategies.
At every opportunity possible, the Lakers have spoken fondly of Bronny and supported his development. They’ve put in the time to get him to the level that he could be playable and effective in a playoff series. Not every player is capable of that, and hastily moving that guy would be unwise.
Bronny can help the Lakers and could be a great backup guard if he continues to improve. So far, he’s gotten better each year, so there is no reason to think he’s come even close to reaching his ceiling.
James was also in attendance at Las Vegas Summer League supporting the Lakers and, according to Woike’s reporting, is also participating in the team’s veteran minicamp.
That doesn’t sound like someone who is disengaged or a franchise that is ready to move on from a player.
Still, anything can happen, and it wouldn’t be a shock if Bronny is out of LA. But assuming he will be shouldn’t be people’s default thinking on this.
Bronny can play. The Lakers know it, and just because his father is gone doesn’t mean he can’t keep growing in Los Angeles.
So far, Bronny has been one of the few recent Lakers draft picks that’s worked out. They did well selecting him, and his contract for this upcoming season is guaranteed. Ideally, he stays with the Lakers and they can continue to benefit from his play while he’s on a modest deal.
With how strict the salary cap is, finding players like Bronny who can outplay their contract is very valuable, and keeping them is necessary for team success.
Bronny is related to LeBron and will always be connected to him, but he’s his own player. So, until we hear otherwise, fans should expect his career to continue with the purple and gold.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
