It’s a new era for the Los Angeles Lakers, as this will be the first season in eight years without superstar LeBron James on the roster.
During the past several seasons, James continued to break records and make history. He had several historic moments with his son, Bronny James, whom the Lakers drafted No. 55 in 2024, including the first father-to-son assist in a game and vice versa.
This offseason, LeBron James officially departed the Lakers to explore free agency. After weeks of speculation that he might rejoin his former teams the Cleveland Cavaliers or Miami Heat, James signed a two-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers.
During the Lakers’ media session to begin training camp, Bronny James was asked what it would be like for him without his dad on the team this coming season.
“Feels like he’s not here. … He’s my dad. I spent almost 22 years with him, so, just another experience that I’m gonna be a part of, and I’m excited how it’s gonna feel during the season, too. Looking forward to it,” he told reporters, also calling it “something different.”
The new-look Lakers roster features big man Walker Kessler, whom the team acquired in a sign-and-trade with the Utah Jazz this offseason. In addition, the Lakers added guards Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton to help with the backcourt.
Last season, Bronny James had a reserve role on the Lakers’ main roster. He also played some time for their G League squad, the South Bay Lakers, now the Coachella Valley Lakers.
He played in 42 of the Lakers’ games last season. Bronny averaged 2.9 points, 1.2 assists, and 0.6 rebounds in his 8.9 minutes per game. Questions remain about whether he’ll become a star in the NBA or struggle as he continues to play in a league his superstar father excelled in.
“I’m excited for the experience, to experience something different with him not being here and to see how the staff treats me without him being there and all my teammates and stuff like that. I’m excited for it, and I’m excited for the season,” James said during Monday’s media session.
The Lakers tip off their regular season on Wednesday, Oct. 21, against the Golden State Warriors. Bronny and LeBron James could play in their first game against one another on the court on Christmas Day, when the Lakers host the 76ers.
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