The Los Angeles Lakers have secured Matisse Thybulle, an All-Defensive wing, through a one-year contract valued at $3.3 million. This deal enhances their lineup with a top-tier perimeter defender, aligning with the team’s goals. However, the addition of Thybulle brings the team’s contracts to a total of 16 for the 2026-27 season, surpassing the standard limit. Consequently, the Lakers might need to release a player before the season commences.
Per John Hollinger from The Athletic, one potential candidate for release is Bronny James. By waiving and stretching his $2.2 million salary for the upcoming year, the Lakers can potentially stay under the luxury-tax threshold. Yet, Hollinger highlights that a more feasible solution may involve Jaden Hardy being let go, given his $6 million salary for the next season.
Options extend beyond Hardy and James. Dalton Knecht’s $4.2 million contract and Adou Thiero’s $2.1 million are also considered moveable. The Lakers may explore trading these players, although Hardy’s agreement prohibits a transaction combined with others. Should a trade fail to materialize, an outright release may be necessary.
In recent discussions, trades involving Bronny have gained attention while the NBA community eagerly anticipates LeBron James’s next team choice for 2026-27. LeBron plans to leave the Lakers, positioning himself as a major free agent contender. Speculation suggests that Bronny might follow wherever LeBron signs. However, Dan Woike of The Athletic dispels these rumors, asserting Bronny’s future isn’t influenced by LeBron’s decision.
Despite the roster’s makeup hinting at Bronny’s potential departure, nothing definitive has surfaced. Bronny recorded modest stats last season, averaging 2.9 points, 1.2 assists, and 0.5 steals over 8.9 minutes per game, maintaining a 41% field goal percentage. His playtime has also included stints in the G League with the South Bay Lakers.
Conversely, Jaden Hardy posted 9.2 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assists across 15.8 minutes last season, splitting his time with the Dallas Mavericks and the Washington Wizards. Hardy’s consistent 40% success in 3-point shooting bolsters his potential contribution as a secondary unit leader alongside Collin Sexton, backing up players like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Though no immediate indications suggest Bronny’s departure, future considerations may evolve as the season approaches. His trading value could increase relative to moves involving LeBron. Additional news involves Giannis Antetokounmpo’s brother commenting on a significant trade with the Heat.
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