In a twist that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, former Los Angeles Lakers forward Isaac Bonga has hinted at a potential return to the league, igniting excitement among fans and analysts alike. The 25-year-old, who recently starred for Germany at EuroBasket 2025, helped his national team secure a gold medal with a standout performance that has put him back on the NBA’s radar.
Bonga’s EuroBasket campaign was nothing short of impressive. Logging 207 minutes across the tournament, he averaged 23.1 minutes per game and showcased his versatility on the court. The former Laker posted 9.9 points per game on an efficient 53.3 percent shooting from the field, including an eye-catching 45.2 percent from three-point range. Beyond scoring, Bonga contributed 4.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, proving he’s a well-rounded talent.
His performance didn’t go unnoticed. During the tournament, Bonga’s teammate, Orlando Magic star Franz Wagner, playfully suggested that the 6’8” forward should make a return to the NBA. “That’s something, so you have something to talk about,” Bonga reportedly responded with a laugh, neither confirming nor denying the possibility. “Now I just want to enjoy myself with my brothers here, to talk to my family, and then we’ll see,” he added, leaving the door open for a potential comeback.
Bonga’s name is familiar to Lakers fans, as he began his NBA career with the Purple and Gold. Drafted 39th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2018 NBA Draft, his rights were quickly traded to the Lakers. As a rookie in the 2018-2019 season, Bonga saw limited action, playing in 22 games and averaging just 5.5 minutes off the bench. Despite the lack of court time, his athleticism and potential were evident.
The following summer, Bonga was traded to the Washington Wizards, where he enjoyed a more significant role. In his first season with the Wizards, he appeared in 66 games, starting 49, and averaged 18.9 minutes per game. His production included 5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, with a solid 50 percent field goal percentage and 35 percent from beyond the arc. However, his second season with Washington saw a dip in performance, with his minutes dropping to 10.8 per game and his scoring falling to just 2 points on 37 percent shooting.
In 2021, Bonga signed with the Toronto Raptors but played sparingly, averaging 4.6 minutes across 15 games. After his brief stint in Toronto, Bonga returned to Europe, finding success with Bayern Munich and later signing with Partizan in the Basketball League of Serbia, ABA, and EuroLeague.
Currently under contract with Partizan, where he recently signed an extension, Bonga’s immediate future lies in Europe. However, his contract reportedly includes an NBA exit clause, which could pave the way for a return to the States. While he isn’t eligible to leave Partizan just yet, his recent performances have undoubtedly caught the attention of NBA scouts.
Bonga’s combination of size, defensive versatility, and improved shooting makes him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their roster. At 25, he’s still in his athletic prime and could offer a team a high-energy wing with two-way potential. His experience in the NBA, albeit limited, means he’s no stranger to the league’s demands.
For Lakers fans, the idea of Bonga returning to the NBA—potentially even to Los Angeles—has sparked a frenzy of speculation. Social media platforms like X have been buzzing with reactions, with fans reminiscing about his brief tenure with the team and imagining how his evolved skill set could fit into today’s NBA. Could the Lakers, or another team, take a chance on the German forward?
As Bonga continues to shine with Partizan and represent Germany on the international stage, his name will likely remain in NBA conversations. For now, he’s focused on enjoying the moment with his teammates and family, but the possibility of a comeback looms large. One thing is certain: Isaac Bonga’s journey is far from over, and the NBA may not have seen the last of him.