LeBron James’ Departure in 2026 Could Shake Up Bronny James’ NBA Career

The future of Los Angeles Lakers star forward LeBron James has been a hot topic among NBA fans and analysts alike. Currently under contract through the 2025-26 NBA season, many wonder what lies ahead for the basketball legend beyond his tenure with the Lakers. As LeBron James approaches unrestricted free agency in the summer of 2026, speculation swirls about whether he will remain with Los Angeles or move on to another franchise.

But this looming decision has ramifications not only for LeBron James but also for his son, Bronny James. Drafted by the Lakers with the No. 55 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Bronny is entering his sophomore season and building his own career in the league. What happens to him if his father departs from the Lakers? This article explores the possible futures for Bronny James based on various scenarios linked to LeBron’s potential exit.

Option No. 1: Bronny Plays Out His Contract with the Lakers

One clear possibility is that Bronny James remains with the Los Angeles Lakers regardless of his father’s future. Currently under contract, Bronny has a deal that keeps him with the Lakers through at least the 2027-28 NBA season, thanks to a team option that can extend his tenure.

If the Lakers decide to exercise this club option, Bronny won’t hit free agency until 2028. This means he could develop his skills and establish himself within the Lakers’ system for several more years. Even if LeBron James leaves after the 2025-26 season, Bronny could still be a key part of the franchise’s rebuilding or continuing plans.

The downside to this option, however, is that father and son would be playing on different teams, which may affect their personal and professional dynamics. While LeBron James might continue his NBA career elsewhere, Bronny would remain tied to Los Angeles — at least for the near future.

Option No. 2: Bronny Gets Traded to Wherever LeBron Lands in 2026

Another exciting scenario would see Bronny James traded to the team that signs LeBron James once he hits free agency in 2026. This would allow the father-son duo to continue playing together for at least another season or more.

The Lakers would have to coordinate a trade with the new franchise, which could be complicated but not impossible. Teams often make player moves to accommodate star players, and the idea of keeping the James family together on the court could have marketing and fan engagement benefits.

That said, this option raises some strategic questions for the Lakers. Would they be willing to part with a young talent like Bronny just to maintain goodwill with LeBron? Also, is it beneficial for Bronny’s long-term career to follow his father for a short time, especially if LeBron is nearing retirement?

Option No. 3: The Lakers Waive Bronny in 2026 to Allow Him to Follow LeBron

A third possibility is that the Lakers waive Bronny James in the summer of 2026, making him a free agent able to sign with whichever team LeBron James joins. This route could be the smoothest way for the duo to remain teammates without complicated trades.

Interestingly, Bronny’s contract for the 2026-27 season is only partially guaranteed, which gives the Lakers flexibility in this situation. Waiving him would free up salary cap space for the team and allow Bronny to make his own career decision.

However, if Bronny has a strong sophomore season and proves himself a valuable asset, the Lakers might hesitate to waive him. Retaining promising young players is crucial for any NBA franchise aiming for long-term success. If Bronny blossoms into a core player, his departure might not be so straightforward.

Option No. 4: Bronny Becomes a Long-Term Piece with the Lakers

The ideal and perhaps most optimistic scenario for Bronny James would see him establish himself as a cornerstone player for the Los Angeles Lakers regardless of what happens with LeBron James.

If Bronny proves his worth over the next few seasons, the Lakers could view him as an essential part of their future. This would mean no trades or waivers in 2026, and potentially even a lucrative contract extension down the line.

This scenario offers stability and growth potential for Bronny. The Lakers have a history of nurturing young talent, and if they believe in Bronny’s abilities and development, they might prioritize building around him after LeBron’s eventual departure.

The Dynamics of the LeBron-Bronny Relationship in the NBA

The relationship between LeBron James and his son on and off the court adds a fascinating layer to this discussion. It’s rare to see a father and son playing in the NBA simultaneously, and their partnership has attracted attention from fans, media, and league officials alike.

From a family perspective, continuing to play together could be a dream come true for both LeBron and Bronny. Yet from a professional standpoint, the realities of contracts, team strategies, and player development mean that their paths may not always align perfectly.

If LeBron James opts to leave the Lakers, he might consider the impact on his son’s career and personal growth. Whether they remain teammates or take separate journeys, both players will need to make decisions that balance family bonds with professional aspirations.

What NBA Fans and Analysts Are Saying

NBA analysts have weighed in on the potential futures of the James duo. Some believe that the Lakers will keep Bronny regardless of LeBron’s choice to leave, focusing on the younger player’s potential rather than the sentimental value of keeping them together.

Others argue that LeBron James’s influence in the league and his family-first approach could push teams to accommodate the father-son pairing, at least temporarily.

Ultimately, the NBA landscape in 2026 will be shaped by many factors — including team performance, salary cap space, and the evolving priorities of both LeBron and Bronny James.

Conclusion: The Future Remains Uncertain but Full of Possibility for Bronny James

As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on LeBron James and Bronny James. The elder James’s contract situation will play a significant role in shaping not only his own future but also the trajectory of his son’s budding NBA career.

Whether Bronny James stays with the Los Angeles Lakers, follows his father to a new team via trade or waiver, or carves out a separate path entirely, his journey is one to watch closely.

NBA fans can expect an intriguing mix of family legacy, professional ambition, and strategic maneuvering in the coming years. Whatever unfolds, the story of LeBron and Bronny James remains one of the most compelling narratives in professional basketball today.