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76ers Projected Starting Lineup After Signing LeBron James
Jayne Kamin - IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

LeBron James is set to return for a 24th NBA season after putting retirement on the table following the Los Angeles Lakers' playoff exit. The 41-year-old later admitted he thought he was done playing before deciding he still had the desire to continue chasing another championship. That decision has now brought James to Philadelphia.

The four-time NBA champion has signed a two-year, $8 million deal with the 76ers, joining a roster that already features Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and newly acquired Jaylen Brown. The move immediately puts Philadelphia among the teams to watch in the Eastern Conference, with James taking a significant pay cut in pursuit of another title.

Projected 76ers Starting Lineup With LeBron James

King James’ arrival gives the 76ers one of the league's most experienced lineups heading into the new season.

  • Tyrese Maxey
  • Jaylen Brown
  • LeBron James
  • Joel Embiid
  • VJ Edgecombe

Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, LeBron James, Joel Embiid, Vj EdgecombeBill Streicher | Jayne Kamin | Wendell Cruz - IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Tyrese Maxey is expected to remain at point guard after another strong campaign, continuing to lead the offense with his speed and scoring ability. Brown is projected to slot into the backcourt alongside Maxey, though his versatility also gives Philadelphia flexibility on the wing.

LeBron is likely to start at forward, where he can still impact the game as both a scorer and primary playmaker. Even entering his 24th season, his ability to create offense and take advantage of mismatches remains one of the biggest strengths of his game.

Joel Embiid will continue to anchor the frontcourt as the team’s center, while rookie VJ Edgecombe is projected to round out the starting five. His athleticism and defensive versatility could give the Sixers another option on the perimeter while allowing the team's veteran stars to take on larger offensive roles.

LeBron’s Decision Adds to 76ers’ Title Hopes

Philadelphia had already made one of the biggest moves of the offseason by acquiring Brown from the Boston Celtics in a deal that sent Paul George and draft assets the other way.

James' decision only added to the momentum. According to his announcement, the move was not about money or family. Instead, James described it as his "last decision," one centered on competing for another championship before the end of his career.

Philadelphia's stars also played a role in recruiting him. Embiid, Maxey and Brown all reached out to James as they tried to convince him to join the organization, while owner Josh Harris also made his pitch. Their efforts indeed paid off.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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