The Philadelphia 76ers have been looking for a superstar to play alongside Joel Embiid. Can LeBron James be the answer this offseason?
The 38-year-old superstar has publicly stated that he wants to play in the NBA with his eldest son, Bronny. LeBron has a player option for next season, so he could hit the open market as soon as possible this offseason.
Jake Fritz and Elliot Shore-Parks of Audacy’s original podcast Clap Your Hands discuss whether the Sixers should go all-in on adding LeBron James next offseason.
“The 76ers should sign LeBron next offseason,” Fritz said (player 1:27 above). “They should sign LeBron next offseason. He’s going to be a free agent. He’s said he’ll play wherever the team drafts Bronny, and he’ll play there… He’s on the record . I don’t think he’s going to go back on his word. “I think he’s probably going to force the Lakers to do it, but whatever. “
While LeBron has been the primary focus of the offense throughout his career, maybe he’s willing to step back and play with Bronny — and compete for a championship.
“LeBron is going to be paired with Maxey and Embiid, and we’ve been trying to find the right player who doesn’t need the ball all the time and can score when he needs to but doesn’t take the ball away from Maxey,” Ford said. Ritz continued.
The Sixers may look to trade weapons this season, but Fritz would rather wait and pursue LeBron.
“I’d rather not trade Zach LaVine or whatever before this deadline and wait for the opportunity to sign LeBron this offseason. Because I think he’s actually a really good fit for these guys,” he said. “You mean he can play the Tobias role? That’s basically what you get with LeBron and all it takes is drafting Bronny? LeBron needs a full court press, come to Philly and finish your career Yeah. “You play with Embiid, you play with Maxey, let’s go win a championship. “
However, Shore-Parks doesn’t think so. Despite being a fan of LeBron, he didn’t think it was a good fit for Philadelphia.
“I like LeBron. I’m not a LeBron hater. Honestly, I’m not interested in LeBron here,” he said. “I don’t think he’s a good fit, number one, because A) Embiid is the best on offense. Best option, I want Maxey to be the primary ball handler. LeBron has to be the primary ball handler.
“He’s going to be a spot-up shooter, LeBron? You say he’s going to play Tobias’ role, which is a waste of resources…LeBron’s not going to be a willing participant. “He’s not going to play third fiddle to the offense. The role of the hand. “
Adding one of the best players ever to a team with a rookie star guard and the reigning MVP would give the Sixers a formidable trio in the Eastern Conference.