How Jaylen Brown trade, Tyrese Maxey impact LeBron James’ free agency

It is a testament to LeBron James’ greatness that he is entering year 24 in an offseason with so much player movement and he is still the main topic of discussion. The 41-year-old told the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this week that they can move on without him, subsequently getting linked to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and the Golden State Warriors as possible landing spots.

James’ ties to the Cavaliers and Heat are well documented — being born just outside of Cleveland, spending 11 total seasons with the team, and playing four years in Miami — but Golden State was considered an option due to his interest in playing with his former rival, four-time champion Stephen Curry. NBA insider Shams Charania confirmed the 21-time All-Star’s interest in those teams multiple times, but then his focus was disrupted by the Philadelphia 76ers’ stunning acquisition of former Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown.

James’ agent, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, showed what appeared to be a group of teams that the legendary forward is seriously considering, and the 76ers stood out in a big way. Paul boldly stated his client’s interest in Philadelphia, citing his ties with star point guard Tyrese Maxey through Klutch Sports, the addition of Brown, and the opportunity to mentor an intriguing young talent in VJ Edgecombe.

Warriors on the periphery of James discussions

The Cavaliers, Warriors and Heat were also listed, but Golden State appeared to be on the outside looking in. The middle of the board seemingly lists the teams who have the strongest chance of landing James, laying out their four projected starters alongside the former Laker, but Curry’s team wasn’t among those clubs.