LeBron James Picks 76ers, Stunning Several Front-Office Observers
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LeBron James has agreed to join the Philadelphia 76ers, a choice that caught multiple NBA executives off guard after Miami, Cleveland and Golden State were viewed as stronger contenders, according to The Athletic.
“That was like option No. 4,” one executive told the outlet moments after the announcement.
Longstanding Interest in Philadelphia
Although the decision surprised some around the league, one former Lakers teammate said James seriously weighed Philadelphia during his 2018 free agency before opting for Los Angeles. The four-time MVP is expected to start at power forward, with his passing seen as vital alongside high-volume scorers such as point guard Tyrese Maxey, who can shift off the ball.
Attempts to Reunite With Kyrie Irving
Before James finalized his plans, ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill reported that he had pushed earlier in free agency for the Cavaliers to acquire Kyrie Irving. Dallas showed no interest in trade talks, and a sign-and-trade involving James Harden would have been difficult for Cleveland, Yossi Gozlan of The Third Apron noted. A source close to James told The Athletic he was not waiting for a team to land Irving or Anthony Davis.
Heat, Warriors and Wolves Pivot
Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald writes that the Heat will renew conversations with forward DeMar DeRozan and weigh other free agents after missing on James. A coach trusted by Erik Spoelstra advised the team against signing Russell Westbrook, citing concerns about coachability, Jackson adds.
With James off the market, Golden State will concentrate on re-signing Draymond Green and filling out the roster, Nick Friedell of The Athletic reports. Free-agent guard Gary Payton II remains a candidate to return.
The Timberwolves made an aggressive push despite long odds, according to Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic. Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball phoned James directly, president Tim Connelly held extended talks with agent Rich Paul, and co-owner Alex Rodriguez joined the pitch. Minnesota will now explore other power-forward options.
Championship Focus and Living Arrangements
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin states that chasing a fifth title was James’s primary motivation. The 41-year-old may live in New York City and commute to Philadelphia, McMenamin adds. An ESPN panel also evaluated how James fits the Sixers and the club’s ceiling with him.
Bronny Not Part of the Deal
Rich Paul told ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne that James and his son Bronny are not a package deal, and there are no current plans for the Lakers to send Bronny to Philadelphia.
The 76ers are expected to introduce James formally once the league’s moratorium ends.
Source: Hoops Rumors
