When speculation was running rampant around LeBron James’ looming free agency decision, the Philadelphia 76ers were one of few teams mentioned as a potential destination.
In the end, James opted to take his all-time great talents to Los Angeles and become a Laker, but there were plenty of rumors linking him to the Sixers and close friend Ben Simmons. However, according to ESPN’s Ryen Russillo who appeared on a recent edition of the Back to Back podcast, James had no intention of even meeting with Philly during his decision-making process.
New @back2backpod with @ryenarussillo
*Steph vs System
*Hello Daddy Lebron
*Celtics / Kyrie Issues
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— Back To Back POD (@back2backpod) October 30, 2018
Though the 76ers would have obviously loved to have LeBron James aboard, there are likely multiple reasons James had no interest in heading to Philadelphia.
Though they do play in a weaker Eastern Conference which James has dominated for nearly the past decade, the fit may have been awkward. Despite Ben Simmons being one of the true budding superstars in today’s league, he brings a lot of the same things to the table as LeBron, such as their elite court vision and breathtaking athleticism.
With James in the fold, however, the Sixers would’ve undoubtedly been the favorites to win a shallow Eastern Conference, something that still isn’t out of the realm of possibility. The Sixers have started 5-4, while James and the Lakers’ young core hope to work through their ongoing growing pains that currently have them at a lowly 3-5.
