The Los Angeles Lakers will be without Luka Dončić for one game, but the absence could open the door for an unexpected opportunity.
Dončić is serving a one-game suspension after reaching the NBA’s technical foul threshold, forcing Los Angeles to adjust its rotation for Monday’s matchup against the Washington Wizards.
For Bronny James, that shift could translate into meaningful minutes.
Opportunity Opens Amid Luka Suspension, Lakers Injuries
Coach JJ Redick said the Lakers will rely on depth to navigate Dončić’s absence.
“We’re going to need everybody,” Redick said, via California Post, after Sunday’s practice.
That approach comes as the Lakers also manage injuries. Guard Marcus Smart is listed as day-to-day with a right ankle contusion, while Adou Thiero has been sidelined with left knee soreness.
With Dončić unavailable and the backcourt potentially short-handed, the Lakers may look deeper into their rotation — a scenario that benefits James.
Strong G League Performance Builds Case for Lakers Reserve Guard
James enters the game with momentum from the G League.
He was recalled from the South Bay Lakers on Saturday after logging extended minutes in the affiliate’s regular-season finale. The second-year guard delivered one of his most complete performances, finishing with 26 points on 9-of-12 shooting, including 6-of-8 from three-point range. He also added seven rebounds, five assists and one steal in 37 minutes.
The six made 3-pointers marked a G League career high.
Recent NBA Growth, Confidence Returning
At the NBA level, James has begun to carve out a role.
Over his last two appearances with the Lakers, he has averaged 3.5 points and 1.0 steals in 8.9 minutes while shooting 50% from the field and from three-point range.
His shooting confidence has also been trending upward.
“I’ve gotten more and more reps being comfortable shooting behind the NBA line,” James said. “Gotten more and more comfortable for me to just shoot it without thinking.”
Historic Moment With LeBron James
GettyLakers forward LeBron James, right, welcomes his son, Lakers guard Bronny James, on the court to play.
James was part of a historic sequence in Friday’s win over the Brooklyn Nets.
He connected on a 3-pointer off a pass from his father, LeBron James, marking the NBA’s first recorded father-son assist.
“It was a special moment with us two and a lot more to come down the road,” Bronny said.
LeBron James pointed to his son’s growing confidence and progress.
“Just not take it for granted, being in a moment of us being on the floor once again,” LeBron said. “He’s always been able to shoot the ball. I just think there’s confidence in the rhythm.”
The moment also reflected a longer journey back to form after Bronny’s cardiac arrest during a workout at USC before his rookie season.
“It’s just getting back to where it was before the incident,” LeBron added.
Praise From Luka Dončić Adds to Momentum
GettyLuka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers watches his shot in front of Bronny James.
James’ development has also drawn praise from inside the locker room.
Following a 137-130 win over the Indiana Pacers on March 25, Dončić pointed to the guard’s improvement since last season.
“Definitely a big improvement from last year,” Dončić said last week. “I saw him in training camp; he was doing some stuff that I was really impressed with.”
Dončić also highlighted James’ ability to deliver in key moments.
“He did a great job,” Dončić said. “Big game for him, that pull-up 2 — it was one of the most important shots of the game.”
The endorsement from the Lakers’ primary playmaker further underscores the growing trust James is earning within the team.
Lakers Adjust Without Primary Playmaker
Los Angeles has gone 14–2 since late February, with Dončić driving much of that success.
Without him, the Lakers will need a more balanced offensive approach, creating opportunities for multiple players across the rotation.
For James, that shift could provide his clearest opportunity yet to secure meaningful NBA minutes.
One Game, Bigger Opportunity
Dončić is expected to return after serving his suspension, but Monday’s game presents a window.
For James, it is more than just a chance to contribute.
It is an opportunity to build on recent progress — and potentially turn a short-term opening into a longer-term role.
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