The Philadelphia 76ers have put themselves on the map as the Eastern Conference opponent of the Los Angeles Lakers, vying for a shot to reel in the biggest talent in the league — LeBron James.
At 33 years of age, James is still delivering in splendid triple-double ways and has shown no signs of slowing down under Tyronn Lue and the Cleveland Cavaliers, though his team has certainly left much to be desired through this regular season.
The Sixers, unlike the Lakers, have presented a more ready-to-win product, with tantalizing pieces in place like Joel Embiid, Dario Saric, Ben Simmons, and potentially Markelle Fultz, if he can get his shoulder and shot mechanics down pat.
The Sixers have remained tight-lipped, but they will be very aggressive in pursuing James over the summer, as a team that is likely one superstar player away from a long period of Eastern Conference domination.
The Sixers are one of a few teams who have significant salary cap space to use in this upcoming summer.
“They would need to make a few moves to get close to a $34 million max salary for James in year one, but it can be done,” according to Jeff Zillgitt of USA TODAY Sports.
Let’s also point out that James on media day in September said nothing has happened that has changed his stance about finishing his career with the Cavaliers.
He also said, “Anytime I’m able to be a free agent or my contract is ending, I’ll approach that when the summer comes.”
James has remained non-committal to the Cavs and this has only suggested that he will bolt this summer, barring a major event taking place or them reaching the NBA Finals and showing some sign of promise.
If the Sixers can show some signs of combat in the playoffs, they will make a case for themselves in this race, despite the shining lights in the City of Angels.
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