LeBron joins 76ers as Bronny's Lakers stay uncertain

LeBron James has agreed to a two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, ending his six-year tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers and concluding a historic two-season run playing alongside his son, Bronny James. The decision, confirmed on July 24, 2026, marks a significant shift for the 41-year-old superstar and leaves his son's future with the Lakers as a central question.

Bronny James, the 21-year-old guard entering his third NBA season, remains under contract with the Lakers after the team fully guaranteed his $2.296 million salary for the 2026-27 season on June 30. His contract includes a team option for the following year. Despite his father's departure, there is no indication the Lakers intend to trade him, nor have there been credible reports that Philadelphia is seeking to acquire him. According to one report, LeBron and Bronny are not considered a "package deal."

The separation may benefit Bronny's development, according to some observers. Former Lakers champion Mychal Thompson recently argued that staying in Los Angeles allows Bronny to forge his own path outside his father's considerable shadow. Thompson noted Bronny's improvement during his second...