Matt Barnes suggests LeBron James exit helps Bronny James develop independently

Matt Barnes stated that the departure of LeBron James from the Lakers could aid the professional growth of Bronny James. After sharing a roster with his father for two NBA seasons, the 21-year-old guard now faces his third season with the Lakers while his father plays for the Philadelphia 76ers. Barnes noted that the separation allows the younger James to establish his own identity in the league without the focus consistently shifting toward his father. LeBron joined the 76ers in July following an eight-season stint in Los Angeles that included winning the 2020 NBA championship. Bronny, who has appeared in 69 regular-season games, continues under contract with the Lakers as he works to increase his on-court production. The pair previously made history as the first father and son to play together in both an NBA regular-season game and a playoff matchup.

• 12:15 PMYahoo Sports — Matt Barnes Says LeBron Leaving Lakers Could Be the Best Thing for Bronny James