LeBron James is joining the Philadelphia 76ers. The 41-year-old signed a two-year, $8 million contract with Philadelphia after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers following eight seasons. The deal could extend his career to a possible NBA-record 25 years.
According to Yahoo Sports, James pointed to the Oklahoma City Thunder as one of the influences behind his decision. He never seriously considered OKC, but said their second-round playoff sweep of the Lakers shaped how he wanted to finish his career. The Thunder eliminated Los Angeles in a sweep that James described as leaving things feeling unfinished. Separate reporting by The Athletic said James felt incomplete after that series exit.
James addressed his thinking directly on social media. "I thought I was done when the season ended. I wasn't ready to announce it, and I knew I needed some time to really decide, but I was pretty sure I played my last game," he wrote. "I was honest at that last press conference when I said I needed to look at myself and decide if I still love this game. I still truly love this game, and I have more to give."
The 22-time All-Star chose Philadelphia over the Miami Heat and the Cleveland Cavaliers. He joins a roster that already includes Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown, and Tyrese Maxey. The Sixers now have two former MVP winners, a recent MVP candidate, and a near 30-point scorer.
The Eastern Conference has seen a wave of movement this offseason. Giannis Antetokounmpo moved to the Miami Heat. Kawhi Leonard returned to the Toronto Raptors. Paul George signed with the Boston Celtics. Philadelphia made the most dramatic changes of any team in the East.
Adding to the Sixers' offseason moves, ESPN reported that Kentavious Caldwell-Pope agreed to a buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies and plans to sign a one-year deal with Philadelphia after clearing waivers. Caldwell-Pope is a veteran wing known for his defense and three-point shooting.
James entering his 25th season sets up Philadelphia as one of the most watched teams in the league heading into next year.
