After weeks of speculation, rumor, conjecture, and research, free agent forward LeBron James found his way to Philadelphia. He signed a two-year, $8 million deal with the 76ers. In the estimation of many, the signing puts Philadelphia at the forefront of championship favorites.
With a conference that still boasts the Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons, and defending champions New York Knicks, the 76ers still look like they have work to do in the regular season and in hoisting the championship trophy. James’ closest advisor detailed what his client could bring to the City of Brotherly Love.
Agent Rich Paul Details LeBron James’ Future Impact on the 76ers
Paul, a member of James’ inner circle, detailed what his client will bring to Philadelphia.
“I think he helps everybody on that team. If he’s your secondary playmaker, he’s the best secondary playmaker in the league…. When you add a LeBron, everything changes.”
Rich Paul on how LeBron helps the Sixers:
“I think he helps everybody on that team. If he’s your secondary playmaker, he’s the best secondary playmaker in the league…. When you add a LeBron, everything changes. That’s why it’s not easy for someone who’s a star player on a team,… https://t.co/u8kIe79BSG pic.twitter.com/MhVERFErhM
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In Philadelphia, James would serve as another facilitator on the court. While Tyrese Maxey is the point guard, the 41-year-old would operate as the point forward.
For example, in a half-court offense, James could take the ball on the wing while his teammates, via Joel Embiid’s screen, would get free. The veteran forward would spot them and give them an easy scoring chance.
Outside of Embiid, the player who would most benefit from this is Jaylen Brown. Last season, he led the NBA, averaging 16 two-point shot attempts per game. Paul thinks his client’s presence changes the 76ers landscape.
“When you add a LeBron, everything changes. That’s why it’s not easy for someone who’s a star player on a team, when he comes, he kind of shows you how big or little of a star you actually are.”
To win games, James does not need to be ball-dominant or score the majority of the points, especially in Philadelphia, where four other solid options could lead the team in scoring every night.
Opponents will now need to completely change their defensive game plans. In previous years, some would double-team Embiid in the paint, forcing him to kick the ball out on the wing.
Now, a double team means four players, all able to get to the basket with relative ease, becomes an issue. Defensively, while not as quick as he once was, James’ ability to play the passing lane could lead to transition baskets with essentially three other wing players who look to finish strong.
