Bill Simmons weighs in on LeBron James-Bojangles connection

The 41-year-old LeBron James can still add significant value to an NBA franchise, both on and off the court, so league-wide interest in the free-agent forward is understandably high. Every fan base of a competitive team will search for any reason that might explain the all-time great’s potential interest in joining their squad. Charlotte Hornets supporters have been given a particularly interesting one.

Following the news that James will not return to the Los Angeles Lakers, WBTV News wrote a story that highlighted the four-time Finals MVP’s love for Bojangles. The fast-food restaurant chain, which was founded in Charlotte almost 50 years ago, specializes in Cajun-seasoned fried chicken that resonates deeply with many people. James is included among that list of happy customers.

WBTV News touched on past comments made by ESPN’s Ryan McGee, which centered on the superstar’s quests for Bojangles while the Cleveland Cavaliers visited the city early in his NBA career. James takes his physical conditioning extremely seriously, but he is only human. Is the allure of Cajun chicken enough to bring the all-time scoring leader to Charlotte?

Everyone already knows the answer to that question. Bill Simmons had some fun with the article. “It’s definitely enough to land @HousefromDC,” the prominent podcaster joked, taking aim at Joe House, who is his friend and co-worker at The Ringer.

James is expected to sign with the Golden State Warriors or rejoin one of his former squads, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat. The first option offers him a chance to play alongside fellow future Hall of Famers Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. The other two destinations hold sentimental value and provide him with a better chance to reach the NBA Finals one last time.

Despite enjoying a promising 2025-26 campaign, the Hornets do not check off those boxes. They are also enduring considerable roster changes after trading LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges. Nevertheless, Charlotte does boast an intriguing core that features Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel and Coby White. Former Sixth Man of the Year Naz Reid and veteran sharpshooter Grayson Allen also bring stability.

This group could potentially make their presence known in a suspect Eastern Conference, especially if LeBron James is on the roster. If the Hornets manage to get his attention, then Bojangles could be the deal-closer. But that is an enormous “if.”