However, with the addition of Thybulle, the Lakers now have 16 contracts heading into the 2026-27 season — one more than the standard limit — meaning they may be forced to cut somebody before the season starts. According to The Athletic's John Hollinger, that could be Bronny James. By waiving and stretching his $2.2 million salary for next year, that would be enough for the team to sneak under the luxury-tax line. Beyond Hardy and James, Dalton Knecht ($4.2 million) or Adou Thiero ($2.1 million) are two other moveable contracts. Still, with the current roster construction, it's starting to look like it's at least possible the Lakers could move on from Bronny before the 2026-27 season.