The Philadelphia 76ers have reportedly moved to the front of the line in the race to sign LeBron James, according to a July 2 report. League sources told the New York Post that Philadelphia’s recent acquisition of All-Star guard Jaylen Brown has positioned the franchise as a “strong contender” to land the four-time NBA champion should he elect free agency.
Brown, 29, agreed to join the 76ers earlier this week, giving the club a new star to pair with league MVP Joel Embiid. Team executives believe the combination of Brown, Embiid and ample salary-cap flexibility makes Philadelphia one of the most attractive destinations for James, who holds a player option for the 2026-27 season.
James, 41, has not publicly committed to returning to the Los Angeles Lakers and is expected to evaluate several contenders if he opts out of his contract later this summer. Philadelphia’s front office is prepared to pursue the 20-time All-Star aggressively, the report said.
The 76ers last reached the NBA Finals in 2001. Adding James alongside Brown and Embiid would immediately place the franchise among the favorites in the Eastern Conference.
No timetable has been set for James’s decision. Free agency officially opens July 6.
Source: New York Post
