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CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 30: Bronny James #9 and LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers warms up prior to the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on October 30, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
The recent play of Bronny James could improve the Los Angeles Lakers chances of re-signing LeBron James in the offseason. LeBron’s contract expires after this season, and the Lakers reportedly want him to take a pay cut. The goal this offseason is to add players who fit better in a system built around Luka Doncic by signing strong defenders and three-point shooters. However, James could still return via a team-friendly deal.
Lake Show Life reported that Bronny’s increased playing time may be enough to tempt LeBron to re-sign:
“The path of least resistance involves both James as members of the Lakers next season. That would, of course, involve a lot of sacrifice on LeBron’s part. The aging forward would almost certainly need to take a pay cut and perhaps even lessen his role with the team more than what he already has.
That could be the trade-off for getting to run the bench unit minutes with Bronny in 2026-27. It was something LeBron thoroughly enjoyed during the recent 137-130 win over the Indiana Pacers. If Bronny continues on the upward trend everyone is noticing over his first two years with the Lakers, that could be a regular occurrence for the pair in 2026-27.”
Head coach JJ Redick giving LeBron some minutes with Bronny as a secondary lineup could provide enough personal happiness to impact a professional decision. Bronny has played more over the past two games and made some strong plays on the floor with his father.
LeBron Could Get Best Of Both Worlds
Other reasons exist for LeBron potentially staying with the Lakers that would not have made as much sense a few months ago. The Lakers have turned their season around and look like contenders as the third overall seed in the Western Conference.
James playing incredible basketball with Doncic and Austin Reaves shows that this trio could contend for a title, especially if they upgrade at a few other positions. It would make logical sense for LeBron to let the team spend elsewhere and return on a cheaper deal to boost his chances of one more ring.
The wholesome reason of getting to play more with his son and the selfish reason of having another chance at an NBA Championship for his resume could make the Lakers a favorite. Other contending teams would also require James to take a big pay cut, so it’s not like he’ll be losing out on much money.
Is Bronny Good Enough For Playing Time?
The plan in question here revolves around Bronny being good enough to warrant getting backup guard minutes. Bronny’s limitations will need him to play strong defense and hit open three-pointers for the Lakers.
A few incredible performances for the G-League team and positive bench minutes for the NBA team show momentum picking up. Bronny could get the chance to start the season in the bench unit with a quick hook if he fails.
The Lakers will see many players on the free agent market and the hopes of changing up the roster. Reaves and Doncic will hold down the starting guard spots, but the bench unit only sees Luke Kennard as a strong reserve guard today. Bronny proving himself could secure minutes as the backup point guard next season to play more with LeBron.