LeBron Leaves, Bronny Stays
LeBron James Joins Philadelphia 76ers, Leaving Bronny to Build Lakers Career Independently
Key Points
LeBron James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-year, $8 million deal for his 24th NBA season, ending his eight-year run with the Lakers.
Bronny's second NBA season saw him play in 42 regular-season games, averaging 2.9 points and 1.2 assists per game (0.5 steals), while continuing development with the South Bay Lakers in the G League.
Bronny split time between the Lakers and the South Bay G League affiliate, taking on a larger role and showing increased offensive production during his development.
During a Slovenia trip for Luka Dončić’s camp, Bronny was asked about LeBron’s move and replied, 'It’s whatever, it’s my Dad.'
The Lakers reportedly funded a high-end trip to Slovenia for the team, including a Bombardier Global 8000 jet that cost about half a million dollars to transport teammates.
LeBron James has left the Los Angeles Lakers to join the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-year, $8 million contract, ending an eight-year run in Los Angeles and his historic father-son pairing with Bronny James Heavy. The move marks the end of the first active father-son duo in NBA history, with Bronny remaining with the Lakers for his third NBA season as the team invests in his continued development.
Bronny Brushes Off Father's Departure
Bronny James responded to his father's move with a casual attitude, telling fans 'It's whatever, it's my dad' when asked about LeBron's decision Heavy. The 23-year-old guard deflected the emotional weight of the separation with a blunt message that quickly spread across social media Bleacher Report, signaling his focus remains on his own NBA development rather than his father's career move.
Bronny's Growing Role in Second NBA Season
In his second NBA season, Bronny played in 42 regular-season games, averaging 2.9 points and 1.2 assists per game while adding 0.5 steals Heavy. The young guard split time between the Lakers and the South Bay G League affiliate, gradually taking on a larger role and showing increased offensive production during his development with the league's minor team.
Lakers Guarantee $2.3 Million to Bronny Through 2027
The Lakers have guaranteed Bronny a $2.29–$2.3 million salary for the 2026-27 season, demonstrating the franchise's continued belief in his long-term development Heavy. This financial commitment underscores the team's plan to build around Bronny independently of his father's presence, marking a new era for both the guard and the organization.
Lavish Slovenia Trip Highlights Team Investment
The Lakers flew 14 teammates to Europe for a four-day team minicamp in Slovenia hosted by Luka Dončić, using a chartered Bombardier Global 8000 jet that cost approximately half a million dollars Essentially Sports. The expensive trip, which included Bronny, shows the team's willingness to invest heavily in team bonding and player development while navigating life without LeBron.
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