Lakers Summer League 2025: The NBA Summer League is always a thrilling time for basketball fans, and for Los Angeles Lakers supporters, the 2025 edition has been no exception. Held in Las Vegas, with some games in the California Classic in San Francisco, this year’s Summer League has showcased the Lakers’ young talent and new additions as they vie for roster spots and aim to impress the coaching staff. With a mix of rookies, second-year players, and undrafted hopefuls, the Lakers’ Summer League squad has given fans plenty to talk about. Let’s dive into the highlights, standout performances, and what this means for the team’s future.
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Bronny James Steps into the Spotlight
One of the biggest storylines for the Lakers in the 2025 Summer League has been Bronny James, the second-year guard and son of LeBron James. Bronny’s debut in the California Classic against the Miami Heat on July 6 turned heads when he scored 10 points in just 11 minutes, including a highlight-reel dunk after a steal. His athleticism and defensive instincts were on full display, showing why the Lakers are high on his potential. In Las Vegas, Bronny continued to show flashes of brilliance, dropping 14 points against the New Orleans Pelicans on July 13, with three assists and two steals.
However, his performances have been inconsistent. A rough outing against the San Antonio Spurs saw him score just two points with three turnovers, including a couple of airballs that went viral. Despite the ups and downs, Bronny’s defensive effort and playmaking show he’s working on rounding out his game. With LeBron courtside offering advice, it’s clear Bronny is under pressure but also has a unique opportunity to grow. Fans are eager to see if he can build on his G League success, where he averaged 21.9 points last season, and carve out a role in the NBA.
Dalton Knecht and Darius Bazley Emerge as Leaders
While Bronny grabs headlines, Dalton Knecht and Darius Bazley have been the Lakers’ most consistent performers. Knecht, a second-year guard, has shown why he was a first-round pick in 2024. Against the Spurs, he poured in 25 points and grabbed eight rebounds, displaying his scoring versatility and knack for getting to the rim. Bazley, a former first-rounder looking to secure a permanent spot, has been a revelation. In five Summer League games, he’s reached double figures in four, including a 27-point, 13-rebound performance against the Spurs. His ability to defend multiple positions and contribute on the boards has impressed coach Lindsey Harding, who praised his versatility.
Both players are proving they could be key pieces for the Lakers’ future, especially as the team transitions to a roster built around Luka Doncic. Their performances suggest they’re ready to step up, whether as starters or high-energy bench players.
New Faces and Roster Changes
The Lakers’ Summer League roster also features new additions like Jake LaRavia, signed in free agency to bolster the wing position. LaRavia’s shooting (46% on above-the-break 3s last season) adds a dimension the Lakers need, and his under-the-radar signing could pay dividends. Meanwhile, the absence of Adou Thiero, a 2025 draft pick recovering from a knee injury, has given others a chance to shine. Cole Swider, a sharpshooting forward, led the team with 20 points against the Miami Heat, showing his value as a floor-spacer.
These moves reflect GM Rob Pelinka’s strategy to build around Doncic while addressing needs like perimeter defense and shooting. The Summer League has been a testing ground for these new pieces, and the early results are promising.
What’s Next for the Lakers?
The Summer League is a glimpse into the Lakers’ future, especially with uncertainty surrounding LeBron James’ long-term plans. After opting into his $52.6 million player option for 2025-26, questions linger about whether this could be his final season. The team’s focus seems to be shifting toward younger talent like Doncic, Knecht, and Bazley, with Bronny as a long-term project. The Lakers’ 94-81 win over the Pelicans and competitive loss to the Mavericks (87-85) show this squad has potential, but they’re still ironing out chemistry and consistency.
As the Summer League wraps up on July 20, the Lakers will evaluate who deserves a roster spot or a two-way contract. Players like Bazley and Swider are making strong cases, while Bronny’s development remains a storyline to watch. For Lakers fans, the Summer League has been a rollercoaster of excitement and growing pains, but it’s clear the team is building toward something special.
In the end, the 2025 Summer League has given Lakers fans a lot to cheer for. From Bronny’s flashes of potential to Knecht and Bazley’s breakout performances, the future looks bright. As the team heads into training camp, these young players will have a chance to prove they belong on the big stage. For now, the Lake Show’s next generation is stealing the spotlight in Las Vegas.