After missing the Los Angeles Lakers’ final two preseason games, Bronny James has been cleared to suit up when the team opens its regular season Tuesday night against the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena. The second-year guard was notably absent from the Lakers’ injury report, signaling that he’s available for head coach JJ Redick as the team begins its 2025-26 campaign. Only LeBron James (sciatica) and rookie Adou Thiero (knee) are listed out, while center Maxi Kleber is questionable with an abdominal strain.
Bronny averaged 6.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in four preseason appearances, showing flashes of the improved playmaking and confidence that impressed Lakers coaches throughout training camp.
Redick Reveals Lakers’ Starting Lineup
While Bronny is healthy, it remains unclear if he will see action in the season opener. Redick confirmed his starting lineup will feature Gabe Vincent, Austin Reaves, Luka Dončić, Rui Hachimura, and Deandre Ayton — a blend of defensive balance and scoring versatility designed to anchor the team while James is out.
Marcus Smart, Jake LaRavia, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Jaxson Hayes are expected to lead the second unit. If Redick opts to expand his rotation, Bronny James and former first round pick Dalton Knecht are the most likely candidates to round out the bench. Redick praised the team’s depth throughout the preseason and hinted that younger players like Bronny could have opportunities to earn minutes early in the season, especially with the veteran roster managing early injuries.
Nate McMillan: ‘We Expect Him to Get Minutes’
Lakers associate head coach Nate McMillan has been one of Bronny’s biggest advocates. Speaking on The Sports Shop with Reese and K-Mac in August, McMillan predicted that the 20-year-old guard could play meaningful minutes this year.
“I love Bronny. Great young man — and we expect him to possibly get some minutes this year,” McMillan said. “We’ve seen a lot of growth from year one. He had a really good Summer League, and you could see how much more comfortable he was on the floor.”
Bronny impressed during his second NBA Summer League, averaging 14.2 points on 47.6% shooting, along with 3.8 assists and 2.8 rebounds — a significant improvement from his 2024 showing, when he averaged just 8.8 points on 35% shooting.
Confidence Built in G League
Much of Bronny’s growth came from his time in the G League, where he averaged 21.9 points on 44/38/82 shooting, with 5.3 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.9 steals over 11 games.
“He spent a lot of time in the G League this season and I really feel that helped him,” McMillan said. “When he came into this Summer League, you could see the confidence. He was much more relaxed than last year. He’s ready for this next step.”
During his rookie season, Bronny appeared in 27 games for the Lakers, averaging 2.3 points in 6.7 minutes, with one start. Redick noted in July that “the biggest thing for Bronny is that he has to get in elite shape.”
Chris Brickley Defends Bronny: ‘He Didn’t Choose to Be LeBron’s Son’
Renowned NBA trainer Chris Brickley, who works closely with both LeBron and Bronny James, also came to the young guard’s defense after a wave of social media criticism.
“It’s [expletive] ’cause at the end of the day, he didn’t choose to be LeBron’s son,” Brickley said on The Breakfast Club in September. “He’s literally a great kid. You can tell it’s a sore spot for the family. But Bronny’s actually really good. I think he’s just gonna peak in a year or two.”
With his father sidelined and the spotlight squarely on him, Bronny James enters his second season with a chance to carve out a role on a retooled Lakers roster led by Dončić. His progress — and how Redick manages his development — will be among the key storylines to watch as the Lakers aim to stay afloat while LeBron recovers.
