Despite making noticeable progress early in the playoffs, Bronny James ultimately fell out of the Los Angeles Lakers’ rotation, receiving garbage-time minutes amid his team’s Round 2 sweep at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Still, according to FS1’s Nick Wright, the 21-year-old has more than justified the No. 55 pick the Lakers used on him in the 2024 NBA Draft, thanks to the positive impact he’s had on his father, Lakers star LeBron James. As LeBron approaches free agency this offseason, Wright broke down how Bronny’s presence could influence the future Hall of Famer’s decision.
Nick Wright Lauds Bronny James’ Impact on LeBron James, Questions JJ Redick’s Rotation Change
With the Lakers heavily undermanned in the backcourt late in the season and at the start of the postseason, Bronny began featuring regularly in JJ Redick’s rotation. The 6-foot-2 guard often checked in early in the second quarter, providing a defensive spark and showcasing improved shooting and playmaking as he logged valuable minutes alongside his father.
While superstar guard Luka Dončić (hamstring) remained sidelined throughout the playoffs, his backcourt partner, Austin Reaves, returned from a Grade 2 left oblique strain midway through Round 1, swallowing up Bronny’s minutes.
Despite winning a series, LA ultimately lost six of its final seven postseason outings, with questions mounting about LeBron’s future. While rumors have been swirling about the 22-time All-Star joining potential suitors such as the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors, Wright believes Bronny could give the Lakers an edge in negotiations.
“Bron loves playing with Bronny. I think that’s one of the Lakers’ best selling points, and it’s also why Bronny is one of the highest-value second-round picks ever, if Bronny’s gonna be a part of the rotation next year,” Wright began on Thursday’s edition of “What’s Wright? with Nick Wright.”
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The analyst continued to second-guess Redick’s decision to take away Bronny’s minutes, citing the youngster’s ability to elevate LeBron’s play to another level.
“I think one of the only mistakes JJ Redick made was not recognizing sticking with three to four minutes of Bronny a game was activating an extra intensity, excitement, and energy from LeBron,” Wright said.
“I think he looked forward to it. It felt to me like he was extra dialed, not only because he was excited to be playing with his son, but I think a little part of him was like, ‘I gotta make sure if he misses a coverage or screws something up, I can maybe try to fix it.’”
“Bron loves playing with Bronny. It might be the best thing the Lakers have going for them.”@getnickwright says Bronny James could be the reason LeBron stays with the Lakers pic.twitter.com/UQ6xzmXfNY
— What’s Wright? with Nick Wright (@WhatsWrightShow) May 14, 2026
After wrapping up his historic 23rd season, LeBron has now played two full campaigns alongside his son.
With Bronny under contract through at least the end of next season, with a team option for the 2027-28 campaign, it may be difficult for LeBron to move on, especially with the four-time MVP and the Lakers reportedly sharing mutual “interest in continuing their partnership.”