What changed
2026-08-01 23:35 UTC → 2026-08-02 13:21 UTC ·
added
removed
LeBron James' move to Philadelphia 76ers James joins 76ers, receives veteran backing
In late July 2026, two NBA legends voiced public support for LeBron James completed a two‑year, $8 million deal to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after he announced he would join eight seasons and sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. Kevin Durant highlighted that elite players prioritize championship aspirations, shot opportunities and financial rewards, labeling James' decision as The move adds the former MVP to a natural "ring‑chasing" move. lineup already featuring Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and newly‑acquired Jaylen Brown from Boston. Former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal echoed this view, comparing James’ situation to his own veteran‑minimum stint with the Boston Celtics and emphasizing the desire for another title late in a career. On used the July 27 episode of SiriusXM’s The Stephen A. Smith Show, Shaq defended Show to defend James against "ring‑chaser" “ring‑chaser” criticism, noting drawing a parallel to his own late‑career Celtics veteran‑minimum contract with the Boston Celtics in his 19th season and emphasizing his lingering goal of another championship. A few days later, At a USA Basketball Foundation charity event, Kevin Durant described praised the new 76ers lineup revamped Sixers as a "superteam," pointing to legitimate 2027 title contender, noting the team now has four 25‑point scorers players capable of averaging 25 points per game and likening the move to his own criticized shift highlighting James’s chance to Golden State, while calling become the roster a contender and "fun first player to watch." Both comments sparked discussion about win championships with four different franchises. Oddsmakers responded by moving Philadelphia into the strategic and salary‑cap implications top tier of acquiring a veteran superstar, underscoring a broader debate within championship odds, trailing only the league over team‑building philosophies versus Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs, while the franchise loyalty. seeks its first title since 1983.