One topical but less urgent issue involves Bronny James, LeBron’s son. Many observers believe Bronny’s standing with the Lakers has benefited from his father’s presence on the roster. If LeBron moves on in free agency, questions will naturally arise about Bronny’s path. A recent report offered a unique update on his potential trajectory, sparking conversation across the league.
Bronny entered the NBA as a highly regarded prospect. His development was briefly interrupted by a serious cardiac incident in 2023, but he returned to play for USC in the 2023-24 season. He ultimately was selected by the Lakers in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. Through his first two NBA seasons, Bronny has spent time between the NBA and the G League, showing flashes of upside but not achieving sustained impact in Los Angeles. In 42 games, he averaged 2.9 points, 1.2 assists, and 0.5 rebounds per game on a 40.9% shooting clip.
At 21 years old, Bronny still has significant upside, but his role with the Lakers remains uncertain. While nothing is finalized, chatter around the league has suggested that Bronny could follow LeBron to whichever team he signs with in free agency. A prominent NBA insider noted that, while nothing is definitive until a decision is made, there is a prevailing sentiment in certain circles that Bronny may head to the same destination as his father.
Bronny isn’t a free agent, and the Lakers picked up his $2.3 million guaranteed salary for the 2026-27 season. That said, this doesn’t bind the team to him beyond that year. The Lakers could explore a trade, but the more likely route to moving on could be to release him, depending on how the roster evolves and LeBron’s decision.
Ultimately, LeBron’s choice will largely dictate Bronny’s path. If LeBron signs with a new team, Bronny’s next steps could follow suit. Plans can change quickly in this area, but it would not be surprising if Bronny’s tenure with the Lakers ends as LeBron’s future becomes clear.
As the offseason progresses, both Lakers fans and NBA observers will be watching closely to see how the roster is reimagined, how the backcourt of Dončić and Reaves evolves, and which direction Bronny James’ career takes in the wake of any leadership changes at the top.
