Preseason nightmare puts Bronny James’ Lakers future in serious doubt

Bronny James is going through a difficult stretch with the L os Angeles Lakers . His quiet performance in the team’s preseason loss to the Golden State Warriors has once again raised questions about his future, just as the franchise prepares to make its final roster cuts before the start of the regular season.

Bronny James under the microscope again

Although he has a guaranteed contract for this season, Bronny’s poor showing against Golden State has placed him back among the leading candidates to lose his roster spot, alongside Dalton Knecht and Jaden Hardy .

In just 11 minutes of action, James failed to score, missing both of his field-goal attempts. He finished with one rebound, one steal, and four turnovers. He also posted a -18 plus/minus in the Lakers’ 12-point defeat — a performance that does little to strengthen his case for a meaningful role in the 2026-27 season .

Analysts believe Bronny is at risk once more

LakeShowLife.com reporter Collin Keane believes Bronny’s outing reopened the debate over who will be the final player cut by the Lakers.

“Bronny has struggled offensively all preseason, and Tuesday’s performance leaves fans wondering whether he survives the impending roster cuts,” he wrote. “His struggles playing point guard are well-documented, but this was arguably the worst performance of his young career.”

While Bronny had shown some positive signs in earlier exhibition games, his performance against Golden State marked a clear step backward. Even Chris Manon , who is on a two-way contract, received minutes ahead of him.

Head coach JJ Redick did not hide his concern either.

“I don’t think he’s played well in the four preseason games.”

All indications suggest the Lakers will have to choose between Bronny James, Dalton Knecht, and Jaden Hardy to finalize the roster.

Knecht also failed to score but finished with a better plus/minus. Hardy, meanwhile, took advantage of his opportunity with 10 points, two rebounds, two assists, and one steal in just 15 minutes.

“James, Jaden Hardy, and Dalton Knecht entered training camp in a competition for the final roster spots. It appeared James had a firm lead over both players before Tuesday night. Dalton Knecht is still the favorite to get cut, but Bronny has to be in consideration after Tuesday’s disaster.”

Although all three players hold guaranteed contracts, cutting Bronny would carry a far greater media impact as the son of LeBron James.