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LeBron James is the newest member of the Philadelphia 76ers.
That doesn't mean the Los Angeles Lakers should trade Bronny James to let son play with father again.
It's not yet clear whether LeBron will ask Philly to pursue Bronny like that. There's always a chance that the King instead lets his son stay out west.
But it's worth considering for the Lakers what benefit there would be to moving Bronny.
It's also worth noting the potential negatives for Bronny's career itself from such a move.
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Why the Lakers shouldn't trade Bronny James
The first is this: It's not up to the Lakers to do helpful business for a player now on another team.
They should at least play hardball if they hear the 76ers want to trade for Bronny. There's no reason to give a discount.
Beyond that, though, Bronny has developed already. He was much better in his second season than his first, particularly as an outside shooter.
The Lakers owe it to themselves to see that development through. Bronny's contract recently became fully guaranteed for 2026-27, and L.A. has a team option for him for 2027-28.
Bronny would also benefit from staying put, for two reasons.
One, he's familiar with his surroundings. At this early point in his career, he doesn't need the upheaval of moving to a brand new organization.
And two, he doesn't need it to look like his dad is pulling all the strings on his career. Bronny is at the point where he can hold onto his Lakers roster spot on his own merit. He doesn't need LeBron to help him.
Might he get traded to the 76ers anyway? Sure. But it's not the move that makes the most sense for anyone except maybe the James family -- and even they should see the benefits to letting Bronny grow by himself with the Lakers.
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