Bronny James Focuses on 2025-26 Season Amid Trade Speculations

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Bronny James, the 20-year-old swingman for the Los Angeles Lakers, is concentrating on his preparation for the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season while dismissing rumors regarding his father's future with the team. Despite the swirling speculation about LeBron James' intentions following his decision to pick up a $52.6 million player option for a record 23rd season, Bronny emphasized his commitment to improvement over external distractions.

"I don’t really pay attention to that stuff. There’s a lot of stuff going around that I don’t pay attention to," Bronny stated during a practice session with the Lakers' NBA Summer League team. His comments came amid discussions about LeBron's potential trade scenarios, particularly in light of the Lakers' recent moves to bolster their roster, including the reported signing of center Deandre Ayton.

LeBron James, a four-time NBA champion and the league's all-time leading scorer, has expressed his desire to compete for another championship, a sentiment echoed by his longtime agent, Rich Paul. However, Paul’s comments have fueled speculation about the Lakers' direction, particularly as they look to build around young talent like Luka Dončić.

Bronny made history last season alongside his father, becoming the first father-son duo to play together in NBA history. Despite this milestone, Bronny insists that their discussions rarely revolve around trade rumors or the team's future.

"We don’t really talk about that much," Bronny said. "When stuff like that comes up, he just tells me to not worry about it, not even pay attention to it. Just lock in to what you have going on right now."

As Bronny prepares for his second NBA season, he aims to enhance his conditioning and performance on the court. Having slimmed down to 215 pounds, he is focused on playing longer stretches without fatigue, an important step considering his medical history, which includes a cardiac arrest incident during a workout at USC two years ago.

"Just being able to be out there for longer time, going at it, just coming in every day and pushing myself even more than I did the last day, I think, is really good for me," he noted.

In addition to physical preparation, Bronny is committed to establishing himself as a defensive asset. He acknowledged that while scoring may not be his primary role currently, his defensive skills will help secure his position on the team. "I can’t lose that defensive drive that will get me on the floor," he asserted.

Despite his focus on personal development, Bronny will not have the opportunity to play alongside the Lakers' second-round draft pick, Adou Thiero, in the Summer League due to Thiero's ongoing recovery from a knee injury. However, Thiero is expected to be fully prepared for training camp.

As the Lakers navigate a complex offseason, the organization remains a focal point of NBA discussions, with Bronny poised to take a significant step in his professional career. The Lakers' first Summer League game will see Bronny face off against the Dallas Mavericks, headlined by No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg, in what is anticipated to be an electrifying matchup in Las Vegas.

The Lakers’ strategic decisions in the offseason, coupled with Bronny’s determination to enhance his game, will undoubtedly shape the narrative as the team approaches the new season. With a blend of youth and experience, the Lakers are gearing up for a pivotal year in their pursuit of another championship.