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Apr 5, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) grabs a rebound during the first quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. © Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
As the buzz surrounding LeBron James’ signing with the Philadelphia 76ers continues to resonate, “what if” scenarios continue to surface. At 41, James may not be the generational player that he was at 31.
However, his presence in Philadelphia, in the estimation of many, makes the 76ers a bona fide NBA championship title threat. Meanwhile, the other contenders for his services will enter the season without him. His agent, Rich Paul, discussed one particular team that some thought would be a good fit, but his client decided against signing.
Rich Paul Explains Why LeBron James Didn’t Sign with the San Antonio Spurs
When the season starts, James will become a facilitator in an offense that could boast four 20-point scorers in Philadelphia. The Spurs, fresh off a defeat at the hands of the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals, became a popular choice among some fans to land James. Paul dismissed the idea, citing specific reasons, on his ” Game Over” podcast.
Paul said, “It’s similar to the Knicks these are two teams that finished last two teams in the season. Spurs were the runner up. And when you have a guy like Wemby you have to respect his growth, his position on the Spurs. It’s not easy. LeBron James shows up. It just doesn’t matter who you are.”
On the surface, it appears that Paul defers to Victor Wembanyama, recognizing him as the team’s franchise player and the focal point of both offense and defense. Moreover, he mentioned that James’ arrival would overshadow and potentially stunt Wembanyama’s growth as a player and a leader. That could be said for any contending team he went to.
In Philadelphia, Tyrese Maxey just enjoyed a phenomenal year. Jaylen Brown, a member of the Boston Celtics, earned MVP votes and said last season was his favorite because he became the focus.
MORE: Lakers Legend Shaquille O’Neal Gets Brutally Honest About LA’s 2027 NBA Championship Outlook After LeBron James’ Exit
On top of that, Joel Embiid, when healthy, is an elite player and serves as the hub for the offense. Plus, earlier in the season, Paul mentioned wanting to play for the Knicks.
The Spurs are a young team that still needs to mature. James is in the twilight of his career, presumably with only a couple of seasons remaining.
The 76ers have two players in their primes and two who haven’t yet reached them. Can James be the turning point for Philadelphia as they attempt to win their first championship in over 40 years?
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.
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