June 2, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA
In a major development for the Los Angeles Lakers’ offseason narrative, newly appointed head coach JJ Redick officially confirmed today that Bronny James will remain a part of the Lakers roster heading into the 2025–26 NBA season. The announcement came just days after the team’s early playoff exit and amid swirling rumors about a potential trade involving the rookie guard.
Redick, who was named the Lakers’ head coach just weeks after their first-round playoff loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, addressed the media during his introductory press conference and wasted no time in making his stance clear.
“Bronny James is a Laker — and we intend to keep it that way,” Redick said firmly. “He’s shown steady improvement all season, and we believe there’s another level he can reach with continued development. His effort, attitude, and resilience have stood out.”
📉 A Disappointing End to the Season
The Lakers’ season ended in frustrating fashion, losing in Game 5 of the first-round series against the Timberwolves. The result fell short of expectations, especially with LeBron James and Luka Dončić leading a team many viewed as championship contenders after the midseason trade.
While LeBron continued to defy time and Dončić dazzled with his playmaking, Bronny’s rookie year was more modest. He spent much of the season toggling between the Lakers’ primary roster and their G-League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, as the coaching staff tried to manage his development in a high-pressure environment.
📈 Bronny’s Rookie Growth
Despite a limited role early in the season, reports from within the organization and around the league suggest that Bronny James took major strides by season’s end. According to a Western Conference executive quoted by Heavy.com’s Sean Deveney:
“The fact is, he was a lot better player in April than he was in October, and definitely in July… If he can show that wasn’t a fluke, he is going to start getting 10, 15 minutes a night because the team is going to feel like they can trust him. I think he is going to do all that. He is going to be a regular for them next year.”
Redick, a former NBA sharpshooter and respected basketball analyst before taking the reins in L.A., emphasized that Bronny will have every opportunity to carve out a role in next year’s rotation.
🗣️ Bronny Responds to Trade Rumors
Following Redick’s announcement, Bronny James broke his silence on the growing speculation surrounding his name during the trade deadline.
“I see the rumors, and yeah, it’s part of the business,” Bronny told reporters after a team workout at the Lakers facility. “But I’m locked in. I’m working every day to prove I belong, not just because of my name but because of what I bring on the court. This city means something to me. Playing with my dad is special, but I want to earn my minutes like everybody else.”
His mature response drew praise from teammates and fans alike, reinforcing the image of a grounded young player focused on the long game.
🔮 What’s Next for Bronny and the Lakers?
As the Lakers regroup this summer under JJ Redick’s leadership, Bronny James is expected to play a larger role, especially with potential roster changes on the horizon. The front office is reportedly prioritizing player development and rotational balance, and Bronny’s growth could prove critical in shaping the team’s future around its star duo.
The Lakers are also rumored to be active in the offseason trade market, looking to add size, shooting, and depth. However, with Redick’s firm endorsement and Bronny’s steady improvement, the younger James appears off the trade block — and very much in the Lakers’ long-term plans.
Summary:
JJ Redick has confirmed Bronny James will remain with the Lakers amid trade speculation. Bronny, who improved steadily throughout his rookie season, is expected to take on a bigger role next year. His mature response to trade rumors and continued development position him as a valuable young piece in L.A.‘s future under Redick’s leadership.
