Why Bronny James didn't play for Lakers vs. Warriors

The Los Angeles Lakers knew they’d be without LeBron James, Adou Thiero, and likely Maxi Kleber on opening night against the Golden State Warriors. Still, every other contributor was good to go for regular-season game No. 1. 

However, James’ son Bronny, who’s expected to be slightly more involved in the Lakers’ offense this year, didn’t see the floor on Tuesday in the Lakers’ loss to the Dubs.

Why didn't Bronny James play vs. the Warriors?

JJ Redick elected to utilize a nine-man rotation to start the 2025-26 season, including Rui Hachimura, DeAndre Ayton, Gabe Vincent, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves in the starting lineup while bringing Jarred Vanderbilt, Jake LaRavia, Marcus Smart, and Jaxson Hayes off the bench.

James appeared in last year’s season opener as a rookie for a historic reason, as James and his four-time NBA champion role model became the first father-son duo to play in an NBA contest alongside each other. 

This time around, however, Redick didn’t feel the need to include James in the mix on opening night against a dynamic Warriors squad with championship aspirations. 

That said, James should still feel confident about his chances of being an impactful contributor on the Lakers in Year 2. 

The USC product will continue to hang his hat on the defensive end, but will improve his odds of receiving meaningful minutes by elevating his catch-and-shoot chops as soon as possible (James only connected on 28.1% of his three-point jumpers last season).

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