LA moves Bronie James roster after NBA trade deadline
The Los Angeles Lakers came out of the NBA trade deadline and made just one deal, a trade to the Atlanta Hawks for Luke Kennard in exchange for Gabe Vincent. With one open spot on the list, The Lakers signed Kobe Bufkin to a two-year contract on Saturday, securing a former first-round pick and G League stands out in the organization. And speaking of the G League, the Lakers felt it was time to Bronnie James to get more reps with South Bay.
The Lakers made the announcement on Monday they determined Brony James to the South Bay, likely to see regular playing time while using the G League for further development. While James spent a good portion of his rookie season in the South Bay, he has been with the Lakers for most of this year.
After a break in the rotation earlier this season when Vincent was injured, James has been used sparingly this year. He appeared in 27 games, including one start, for just over six minutes per game. Coincidentally, that is identical to his performances during his rookie season.
He averaged 1.9 points and 1.1 assists while shooting 37.5 percent from the 3-point line. 55 overall in the 2024 NBA draft. James has two more seasons left on his contract, and in 2027-28. year is a team option.
James has played in nine games with South Bay this season, compared to 18 last year. He averaged 12.0 points, 3.2 rebounds and 4.9 assists while shooting 45.1 percent from the field, 29.2 percent from the 3-point line and 80 percent from the free throw line.
Over the weekend, the Lakers also assigned Dalton Knecht and Adu Tierro to the South Bay for a workout. In Thier’s case, it’s a good sign that he has a tendency to bounce back, as he’s been sidelined since late December with a knee injury. Over the past few seasons, The Lakers used the South Bay well in terms of player development.
2026-02-09 17:55:00
