What is Bronny James up to these days? Currently, he’s playing as the shooting guard for the South Bay Lakers in the NBA G League. LeBron James’ 20-year-old son often watches the LA Lakers from the sidelines as a two-way player, but he has yet to see significant minutes with the main team. While his struggles so far haven’t exactly impressed Lakers Nation, there are some new updates on the USC graduate’s journey.

Lakers insider Trey Lane took to his X handle to share the update: “The Los Angeles Lakers have assigned guard Bronny James and forward Jarred Vanderbilt to the South Bay Lakers.”

This move means that the Lakers are sending Jarred Vanderbilt to the G League as he continues his recovery from a prolonged injury. Vando is working his way back to debut this season after undergoing surgery on both feet during the offseason. Meanwhile, Bronny James will be playing for the LA Lakers-affiliated South Bay Lakers. Does this mean that both the hoopsters would be playing in the minor league for now?

Well, it looks like. But of course, being on two-way deals, both Bronny and Vando would be around the LA Lakers scenes. That is whenever they’re needed. Meanwhile, the positive news coming from Jarred Vanderbilt’s side is giving hope to the fans. The team’s idea to give updates on the two hoopsters ahead of the game vs. LA Clippers is also quite interesting.

Is Bronny James’ health a factor in Lakers’ decision amidst Jarred Vanderbilt’s return?

Bronny James hasn’t been a major factor in the 2024-25 NBA season, so far. Tallying just four points and three assists in nearly 22 minutes of action. In early January, he suited up against the Hawks and Mavericks. Both appearances were brief and limited to garbage time. Then, illness struck. As the Lakers moved on, he stayed sidelined. Once a standout for the USC Trojans, his NBA moment has been on pause ever since.

At the same time, James Jr.’s G League journey has been quiet since a Dec. 27-28 doubleheader in Cleveland, his hometown. He’s played nine games so far, steadily improving. After his first road game with South Bay on Dec. 12, his form began to rise. But now, the silence lingers.

However, Vanderbilt’s status shifting to hope’s side is good news for the Purple and Gold. Reports suggest his return is near. Lakers head coach JJ Redick called it “imminent” on Jan. 11. Though he’s likely out for the current homestand, his comeback is on the horizon. The wait won’t be long now. Vanderbilt’s return could be a game-changer. After dual foot surgeries, his rehab progress is promising. But his comeback isn’t sealed just yet. The 25-year-old has missed the entire season. Though he practiced with South Bay last Friday, he’s still healing from right foot surgery.

For now, Bronny stays in the shadows, while Vanderbilt inches closer to the spotlight. Their paths may differ, but both remain key pieces for the Lakers. As the season unfolds, hope lingers. Change feels near.