The Los Angeles Lakers already feature NBA superstar LeBron James and his eldest son, Bronny James, on their roster. Now, Bryce James, LeBron’s younger son and a promising basketball prospect, is positioned to potentially join the Lakers in the 2026 NBA Draft, which would create an unprecedented family trio for the franchise.
Bryce James, recently graduated from Sierra Canyon High School in California, is set to play college basketball at the University of Arizona during the 2025-26 season. Though he will be eligible for the 2026 NBA Draft, questions remain about his draft prospects and where he might be selected. Experts, however, highlight the Lakers as the most likely landing spot for Bryce, continuing the family legacy in Los Angeles.
Why Bryce James Could Follow Bronny to the Lakers
Bryce’s potential path to the Lakers is informed by the team’s previous decisions with Bronny, drafted in the second round in 2024. Reports indicate Los Angeles was adamant about acquiring Bronny at that draft position, even while Bronny’s agent, Rich Paul, warned other teams that Bronny might opt to play in Australia if selected by anyone else.
“The Lakers took Bronny in the second round a year ago and were seemingly adamant about getting him in that spot. Bronny’s agent, Rich Paul, reportedly told teams that if they selected Bronny, he would go play in Australia.
It’s hard to say whether Los Angeles would once again be that committed to drafting one of LeBron’s sons, but if Bryce is available when its the Lakers’ turn to draft, it seems unlikely they would pass on him.
There was naturally some criticism after the Lakers drafted Bronny last year, but the move worked out well. While Bronny didn’t see the court much, he got to experience all that comes with being an NBA player while getting his reps in the G League. Assuming the younger Bryce is a similar prospect, joining the Lakers and splitting time in the NBA and G League could be the right call.”
—Andrew Peters, Bleacher Report
Given this context, although it is uncertain whether the Lakers will demonstrate the same level of determination to draft Bryce, many believe they would seize the opportunity to continue keeping the James family together on the team if he remains available.
Bronny James’ Growth and Impact in His Rookie Year
Bronny James entered the NBA as a five-star recruit two years ago, initially playing college basketball at the University of Southern California before turning pro. By comparison, Bryce is considered a three-star recruit heading into Arizona.
When the Lakers selected Bronny with the 55th overall pick, they signed him to an uncommon four-year deal worth nearly $8 million, with roughly $4.4 million guaranteed. Such a substantial contract for a late second-round pick likely reflected LeBron James’ close relationship with the Lakers organization.
Despite early doubts and claims of nepotism, Bronny proved his worth during his rookie campaign by performing strongly in the NBA G League. Representing the South Bay Lakers, he averaged 21.9 points, 5.4 assists, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.9 steals per game over 34.2 minutes in 11 appearances. Additionally, he took part in 27 NBA games, averaging 2.3 points in 6.7 minutes per game.
Lakers’ Strategy in the 2025 Draft and Future Prospects
As the Lakers aim to bolster their roster this offseason, drafting may not be their primary focus. They did not possess a first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and initially held the No. 55 pick in the second round for a second consecutive year. However, the team traded that pick and cash considerations to the Chicago Bulls to advance to the 45th overall pick, indicating a targeted strategy with their sole draft selection.
General Manager Rob Pelinka’s moves suggest the Lakers are focused on solidifying key talent while preparing for future opportunities, potentially paving the way for Bryce James’ arrival in 2026. If Bryce shows a similar readiness to Bronny’s early development, the Lakers might integrate him into the roster with a split role between the NBA and the G League.
The Significance of a Historic NBA Family Trio
Should Bryce James join the Lakers in 2026, it would mark an extraordinary moment in NBA history—a father and both his sons playing for the same franchise. This scenario not only extends LeBron James’ legacy but also sets a new precedent for family dynasties within professional basketball.
For the Lakers, having Bryce join LeBron and Bronny would strengthen the team’s connection to one of basketball’s most prominent families, possibly boosting fan interest and media attention. For Bryce himself, joining a familiar environment offers a chance to develop under the guidance of his father and alongside his brother while contributing to a storied organization.
Looking ahead, Bryce’s college performance at Arizona will likely be closely watched as a barometer of his NBA readiness. The next few years will be crucial in determining whether the Lakers seize the opportunity to complete this unique family trio and what impact Bryce will have on their future success.