Just when it seemed impossible for Philadelphia’s offseason to get any crazier, the 76ers have reportedly entered the race for LeBron James.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Philadelphia is now attempting to pitch LeBron after already pulling off one of the most shocking trades in recent NBA history by acquiring Jaylen Brown from the Celtics.
Think about that for a second.
A roster featuring LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and rising star VJ Edgecombe would instantly become one of the most talented teams the league has ever seen on paper.
The Sixers have been operating like a franchise that knows its championship window is now. First came the blockbuster trade that sent Paul George and multiple draft picks to Boston for Brown. Then Philadelphia added scoring depth with Anfernee Simons. Now they’re chasing the biggest free agent on the market.
The move also makes sense from LeBron’s perspective.
At 41 years old, LeBron isn’t looking for a rebuilding project. He’s looking for one more realistic shot at a championship. Philadelphia could offer exactly that. Brown is coming off a career season in which he averaged 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists, while Embiid remains one of the most dominant big men in basketball when healthy.
Of course, there are obstacles.
The Warriors, Cavaliers, and Heat are also reportedly among the leading contenders for LeBron’s services. ESPN reports that James is expected to take his time before making a decision.
Still, the fact that Philadelphia is even in the conversation says everything about how aggressive this front office has become.
Just a week ago, the Sixers looked like a good playoff team.
After landing Jaylen Brown and now pursuing LeBron James, they’re suddenly trying to become the team everyone else in the NBA fears.
And if they somehow pull this off?
The Eastern Conference might belong to Philadelphia before the season even starts.
