Lakers predicted to cut ties with struggling $7.9 million guard via trade to Mavericks
The Los Angeles Lakers have several assets that have been bright spots for the organization early on.
Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are undoubtedly atop the list, but Deandre Ayton, Dalton Knecht, and Jake LaRavia have all had their moments to start the 2025-26 season
However, things have been rough for a 21-year-old second-year contributor, as he’s struggled to earn playing time and make positive strides in his sophomore campaign.
For that reason, Lake Show Life’s Josh Cornelissen believes that the struggling 6-foot-2 point guard could soon land on the trade block, with the Dallas Mavericks being a likely suitor.
“If LeBron James either retires or walks in free agency to another team next summer, Bronny James will not be long for the Lakers,” Cornelissen wrote Sunday.
“The most likely outcome is that he is traded to LeBron's next team as an ‘add-on’ to the new free agency contract. The Dallas Mavericks or Cleveland Cavaliers would trade for Bronny to keep him and his father together.”
James is experiencing the same issues that plagued him during his rookie season.
The USC product will always compete on the defensive end. Still, his inability to knock down open perimeter jumpers at a respectable clip and force defenders to respect his off-the-dribble game has resulted in an uneventful start to his second season.
James has yet to score a point in a game this year and is only averaging 9.3 minutes per game.
Will a change of scenery benefit James and his professional career? Perhaps, but it’s still up to the former McDonald’s All-American to morph into a formidable offensive threat if he wants to survive in the big leagues.
While it’s still early, Cornelissen has the right idea regarding James’ future with the Lakers
Raiders Go Winless In 2025 Preseason: 3 Overreactions
Preseason has officially concluded, bringing us closer to the games that truly matter. This preseason has provided valuable insights. Below are some overreactions (or are they?) to the Las Vegas Raiders’ loss to the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday night.
Brace yourself for mediocrity…
The current vibes are not great. Even if you overlook the game scores, this team does not feel poised to make a significant impact this season.
Typically, strong teams do not need to play their starters in the preseason finale. When they do, their offensive lines should dominate against the opposing backups. Additionally, successful teams possess depth. Unfortunately, the Raiders have struggled this preseason when their reserves are on the field.
While this team is notably better than last season, expecting more than eight wins seems unrealistic. Ideally, Las Vegas should have average talent on both sides of the ball, which is a positive outcome.
Regarding the lack of depth and talent, the Raiders could certainly use improvements at the game’s most critical position…
The Raiders need a QB2…
Even before news of Aidan O’Connell’s injury broke, it was evident that he was not the solution. The third-year quarterback from Purdue is simply a poor fit for this offense. He appears to lack significant command on the field, and his limited arm talent makes it difficult for Las Vegas to fully utilize their dynamic weapons in the passing game.
Regarding arm talent, rookie Cam Miller possesses a lot of it. However, he is far from ready to take meaningful NFL snaps. He still needs improvement in accuracy, offensive management, and the ability to read opposing defenses before the Raiders can trust him.
Interestingly, O’Connell’s injury may prove convenient. It compels the organization to make a decision without the immediate pressure of evaluating a player who has made substantial contributions over the past two seasons. Currently, the player to watch is Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who was recently waived by the Philadelphia Eagles and played under Chip Kelly at UCLA.
While discussing tough decisions, the Raiders must also determine how to handle one of their rookie receivers.
Jack Bech looks like a wasted pick…
While it’s premature to make any assumptions, Bech’s performance hasn’t been stellar thus far. After being selected in the second round, the rookie seemed poised to step in as the team’s number two receiver. However, it is now looking more like he will be fourth, or even fifth if you (rightfully) count Brock Bowers as a de facto wide receiver.
Part of this shift is due to the emergence of Dont’e Thornton, who has been way better out of the gate than anyone expected. Furthermore, having competent quarterback play seems to be unlocking a lot of Tre Tucker’s potential. These are both good things.
However, it is concerning that Bech has not been more noticeable this preseason. He may need more time to make an impact, but that’s not what you’d expect from a top 60 pick. At this point, that selection feels like it could have been better utilized to acquire more value than a player who may see fewer than 15 snaps per game this year.
