Lakers Make Bronny James Announcement Before Nuggets Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Mar 14, 2026 1:46 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers have relied heavily on their veteran core during the closing stretch of the season as they continue their push up the Western Conference standings. With stars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic leading the charge, head coach JJ Redick has largely tightened his rotation and prioritized experienced players while the team aims to finish the regular season with a top three seed in the Western Conference.

This has meant fewer opportunities for some of the Lakers’ younger players, particularly second-year guard Bronny James. The former USC Trojans guard has spent much of the 2025-26 campaign moving between the NBA roster and the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, as the organization continues developing him.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9).Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

While his minutes in the NBA have remained limited, James has shown encouraging flashes when given opportunities. One of his most notable performances with the Lakers came earlier this season against the San Antonio Spurs, when he produced arguably his best outing in purple and gold. He finished with a season-high 12 points, six assists and three rebounds while shooting 100% from three and 50% from the field.

Most of James’ production this season, however, has come in the G League. With South Bay, he has averaged 15.3 points, 2.2 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 12 games, while shooting 54.6% from the field and 42.1% from three-point range.

Ahead of another marquee matchup this weekend, the Lakers made a roster move that could help James see more playing time in the NBA.

Before Saturday’s game against the Denver Nuggets, the Lakers announced that they have recalled James, guard Kobe Bufkin and forward Adou Thiero from the South Bay Lakers. The move gives Los Angeles additional depth heading into the matchup as the team manages rotations late in the season.

The Los Angeles Lakers have recalled guards Kobe Bufkin and Bronny James Jr. along with forward Adou Thiero from the South Bay Lakers.
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) March 14, 2026

James’ recall comes shortly after another solid performance in the G-League.

Whether he ultimately sees meaningful minutes against Denver remains uncertain given the Lakers’ veteran-heavy rotation. But the call-up ensures James will be available off the bench as Los Angeles prepares for one of its toughest matchups of the week and another opportunity to continue his development at the NBA level.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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