The future of Bronny James with the Los Angeles Lakers is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing storylines of the offseason. While all eyes are on his father, LeBron James, and his looming retirement decision, the younger James has plenty of questions surrounding his own NBA journey.

Bronny showed real growth in his second professional season, especially as a shooter. But his year ended on a quiet note Monday night when he didn't see the floor during the Lakers' season-ending sweep at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder. He had earned more playing time late in the regular season as injuries piled up, but by the playoffs, he was pushed out of the rotation entirely.

That could be a sign of what the Lakers have in mind, but the reality is there are three main paths forward for Bronny. The first: he follows his father. If LeBron decides not to retire and signs elsewhere in free agency, he could push for that new team to trade for Bronny. It wouldn't cost much—unless the Lakers decide to play hardball.

The second option is that Bronny stays in Los Angeles, where he still has a couple of years left on his rookie contract. If that happens, his role could go one of two ways. He could remain a deep bench player, getting minutes only when injuries strike. Or he could keep building on the improvements he made from year one to year two and earn a consistent spot as one of the first guards off the bench.

No matter which path he takes, Bronny's development will be worth watching. Whether it's in a Lakers uniform or somewhere else, his next move could define the next chapter of his career.