Los Angeles Times·July 24, 2026

LeBron James chooses the Philadelphia 76ers, will sign a two-year, $8-million deal

Philadelphia move

The biggest development is that James has reportedly chosen Philadelphia after considering multiple options. That would end his eight-season run with the Lakers and place him alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey in a new contender-driven setup.

The reported contract is modest by superstar standards, which suggests flexibility may matter as much as salary. That kind of deal would fit a late-career push focused on contention rather than a long financial commitment.

Why it matters

This matters because James remains one of the league’s most influential players even at 41. His destination instantly reshapes the balance of power in the Eastern Conference and changes how the 76ers are viewed heading into the season.

It also signals that Los Angeles is entering a new phase without the franchise’s biggest draw. The Lakers now have to rebuild their plans around a future that no longer includes him.

What comes next

If the deal is finalized, the main questions shift from where James will go to how quickly he can integrate with a new roster. Philadelphia would need to adjust rotations and ball-handling responsibilities around his arrival.

The broader market implications are also significant, because a decision of this scale can influence other veteran players and team strategies. Contenders watching the outcome may reassess their own offseason moves depending on how seamless the fit appears.

Read at Los Angeles TimesLeBron James' Next Team

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