- Oct 16, 2026
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Bronny James is set for his third NBA campaign with the Los Angeles Lakers, marking the first year he will not share a roster with his father, LeBron James.
The 55th overall selection in the 2024 draft has seen his playing time expand across two seasons, rising from 27 games as a rookie to 42 in his second year. His scoring output dipped slightly to 2.9 points per game last season, though he averaged 1.2 assists. The Lakers fully guaranteed his contract this offseason, locking in a salary for the third year of his four-year deal. The club holds a team option for the final season.
Coach JJ Redick has expressed confidence in James despite uneven preseason showings. "I don't think he's played well in the four preseason games, but he's had good practices," Redick said. The coach pointed to rhythm issues and lineups featuring two-way players as factors working against the guard.
In Friday's preseason finale, a 121-106 defeat to the Denver Nuggets, James logged 12 minutes and recorded one rebound and one assist, missing his lone three-point attempt. The Lakers will look for his defensive ability and decision-making to translate into regular-season opportunities.
Written by the SportsMafia Wire desk in our own words from the original reporting (AI-assisted, checked against the source).