LeBron James’ departure from the Los Angeles Lakers has changed the situation for his son, Bronny James, who will enter his third NBA season without his father as a teammate. The younger James spent his first two professional seasons alongside LeBron after the Lakers selected him No. 55 overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, creating the first father-son duo to play together in NBA history. Bronny remains under contract with Los Angeles after the Lakers guaranteed his $2.29 million salary for the 2026-27 season.
LeBron’s decision ended an eight-year run with Los Angeles that included the 2020 NBA championship and established him as one of the most accomplished players in franchise history. He averaged 25.9 points, 7.9 assists and 7.7 rebounds in 479 regular-season games with the Lakers before deciding to continue his career elsewhere. He eventually signed with the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-year, $8 million deal for his 24th NBA season.
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Bronny was asked about his father’s departure Friday after some Lakers fans caught up with him to take pictures.
“It’s whatever, it’s my dad,” he said with a smile.
The move means Bronny will now continue his development without the benefit of having LeBron on the same roster. Bronny split time between the Lakers and G League affiliate South Bay.
He averaged 2.9 points and 1.2 assists 42 NBA games during his second season, while also making eight postseason appearances. Bronny’s role is expected to remain focused on development as he enters his third year.
