Magic Johnson Says LeBron James Turns 76ers Into One of NBA’s Top Teams
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Hall of Famer Magic Johnson believes the Philadelphia 76ers have vaulted into the league’s upper tier after signing free-agent forward LeBron James. The former Los Angeles Lakers star announced his decision on July 27, 2026, ending weeks of speculation that also involved the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors.
“LeBron makes the Sixers one of the best teams in the NBA,” Johnson wrote on social media shortly after the deal became official.
Philadelphia had already acquired All-Star wing Jaylen Brown in a blockbuster trade earlier this summer. With James now joining Brown, former MVP Joel Embiid, All-Star point guard Tyrese Maxey and second-year wing VJ Edgecombe, the 76ers are projected to field what many consider the league’s strongest starting five.
Johnson’s optimism is tempered by several questions. Embiid’s durability remains a concern, and James will enter an unprecedented 24th NBA season after battling injuries in recent years. Philadelphia’s ability to defend on the perimeter and protect Embiid in pick-and-roll situations will also be closely watched.
During James’s prolonged free-agency process, several Lakers players believed he would head to Golden State to team up with Stephen Curry and longtime friend Draymond Green. Instead, the 41-year-old forward begins a new chapter in Philadelphia after an eight-season tenure in Los Angeles that produced the franchise’s 17th championship.
The 76ers will open training camp in September, when the revamped lineup will share the court for the first time.
Source: Lakers Nation
