The Los Angeles Lakers will trade Bronny James to wherever LeBron James lands if the GOAT pushes for it. This is a franchise that always takes care of their superstars. It took decades to build that reputation, and the Lakers aren’t risking it to keep Bronny. The 21-year-old is improving, but he isn’t a part of the nightly rotation. LA would have no qualms about moving on, especially if they can get a second-round pick or two in the deal.
LeBron has been talking about playing with his son since 2017. The Lakers made the dream a reality when they drafted Bronny in 2024. Fans have seen King James get a bit of extra juice whenever his son is on the floor with him. They made history, and it is unlikely that LeBron is ready for this dream to end.
The Lakers gave Kobe Bryant a monster extension to finish his career, and they just got Luka Doncic the center he desired. They are known for taking care of their star players. It is not often one leaves Los Angeles, but the Lakers don’t want LeBron ruining that reputation. That means a Bronny trade is just one demand away.
Lakers will trade Bronny James if LeBron James asks to play with his son
The latest rumors have LeBron heading back to Cleveland (subscription required) for the storybook ending. He informed the Lakers he would not return before free agency opened. The Cavaliers are said to be keeping a roster spot open for Bronny. If LeBron chooses Cleveland, it will be a homecoming for both players.
The Lakers appear to be planning to move on. Bronny wasn’t included in their summer league roster, despite needing minutes to develop. Los Angeles just traded for Jaden Hardy, who is a logical replacement on their roster. The purple and gold also prioritized size and shooting in the draft as they build around Luka Doncic.
Lakers fans don’t want to see Bronny go. He instantly became a fan favorite, and there was tangible growth in year two. His shooting improved, and it felt like the 21-year-old could blossom into a rotation player with continued growth. Losing him after two years of investment wouldn’t be ideal for anyone involved.
The Lakers drafted Bronny as a favor to LeBron. It was just another way they took care of their superstar. King James stopped being the face of the franchise when the Lakers shockingly traded Luka Doncic at the 2025 trade deadline. Everything shifted, and the Lakers took their shot to build around number 77 this summer. It forced LeBron to walk away, and it left his son’s future in serious doubt.
The Los Angeles Lakers will trade Bronny James to whatever team lands LeBron if King James pushes for it. LeBron will be signing at a discount because no team has max cap space. That means getting him likely comes with demands. Trading for Bronny is likely near the top of that list, so don’t be surprised if it happens shortly after LeBron finds his new home.
