The Los Angeles Lakers are actively searching for answers in the backcourt. With Gabe Vincent sidelined by an ankle injury and set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026, the Lakers need short and long-term answers to the second unit's questions.
Bronny James has the potential to become Vincent's long-term replacement, but his competition just became stiffer than expected with the arrival of Kobe Bufkin.
James has played at least 18 minutes in four of the Lakers' past seven games. With Vincent out, he's received opportunities to showcase what he can provide on both ends of the floor.