LeBron James has signed a two-year contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. The second year of the deal is expected to be a player option. LeBron's decision sees him move back to the Eastern Conference following an eight-year stay with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won a championship in 2020.
Videos by Wide Open Country
By signing his new contract, LeBron could remain in the NBA for his age-43 season. At the least, his new deal shuts down any talk of a potential retirement ahead of the upcoming 2026-27 campaign. Furthermore, by adding LeBron to their roster, the 76ers are now the favorites to secure a championship next season.
Evan at his current age, LeBron is still a top-25 player in the NBA. Last season, he averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists, shooting 58.6% from two-point range and 31.7% from deep.
Philadelphia now has a superteam roster, including LeBron, Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe and Joel Embiid. Anfernee Simons and Dean Wade will round out what is truly an elite top-7 rotation.
It's worth noting that LeBron turned down the Miami Heat and Cleveland Cavaliers in order to join the Sixers. Both teams would have been a legacy move for the veteran superstar. Instead, LeBron has prioritized the opportunity to win at least one more championship before stepping away from the league.
LeBron James Could Play Both Seasons of His New Contract
According to ESPN's Shams Charania, speaking via a July 24 episode of the "Pat McAfee Show," LeBron could play out both years of his new contract, which would mean he remains in the NBA until at least age 43.
"He made it very clear that it wasn't going to be about money," Charania said. "And at the end of the day, it's not. Because he's signing for the lowest possible amount, the veteran minimum contract at the age of 41 going into his 24th NBA season. And my understanding is there's a real chance here he plays both of these years."
LeBron will turn 42 in December. His staying power, not only to be in the NBA, but to still be one of the top talents in the league, is remarkable. Now, all eyes will be on whether he's still go the magic touch. After all, LeBron has won a championship with every team he's played for, and he's unlikely to let that change now.
