NBA execs remain skeptical of LeBron James, Sixers: ‘He’s not gonna move the needle much’

The LeBron James era in Philadelphia has generated plenty of excitement. It has also generated plenty of skepticism around the NBA.

Speaking to Hoops Wire, two veteran NBA executives questioned whether James, now entering his 24th season, will make the impact many expect after signing with the 76ers this summer.

“He’s still LeBron, or still has moments where he’ll remind you he was once LeBron,” one NBA general manager told Hoops Wire. “But this is gonna be the chapter where we watch him and say that he stuck around too long.”

The executive then offered an even harsher prediction.

“Someday we’ll ask, ‘Remember when LeBron played for the Sixers?’ and laugh.”

Another executive, this one from the Western Conference, suggested James’ decision not to return to Cleveland may actually benefit the Cavaliers.

“It’s good, in my opinion, that he didn’t go to the Cavs for their sake,” the GM told Hoops Wire. “He’s not gonna move the needle much.”

Those opinions certainly aren’t universal.

James chose Philadelphia because he believes the Sixers give him his best opportunity to compete for a fifth NBA championship. The roster features Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey and reigning Rookie of the Year finalist V.J. Edgecombe, giving Philadelphia one of the league’s most talented starting lineups on paper.

Still, questions remain. James will turn 42 during the season, while Embiid has appeared in just 57 regular-season games over the past two years.

How those two perform together may ultimately determine whether the Sixers become legitimate title contenders or simply one of the NBA’s biggest storylines.

The skepticism also isn’t new.

Since James announced he was signing with Philadelphia, rival executives and coaches have questioned everything from the roster fit to whether the Sixers have enough role players to complement so much star power.

All of that said, critics are always just that. The real answers won’t start arriving until October, and beyond.