The LeBron James era in Philadelphia hasn't tipped off yet, but the drama is already heating up. Just days after the four-time MVP agreed to a two-year, $8 million deal with the 76ers, his longtime agent and close friend, Rich Paul, has stirred the pot with comments that have fans questioning the team's pecking order.
During a recent episode of his "Game Over" podcast, Paul declared that the 76ers are Tyrese Maxey's team — a statement that didn't sit well with many who believe Joel Embiid deserves that title. Paul, who also represents Maxey through Klutch Sports, didn't mince words, but fans were quick to push back.
"Nah it's still Joel Embiid's team…Rich Paul is wrong on this," one fan fired back on social media. Another warned, "LeBron already creating narratives if this doesn't work is gonna be cuz Maxey or Embiid or Brown fault never LeBron remember this 76ers."
The backlash was swift, with some suggesting Paul's comments could create unnecessary friction in the locker room. "I wish Rich Paul would shut up now before he starts making things real complicated in the locker room," one frustrated supporter wrote.
Paul's remarks come on the heels of James's own explanation for choosing Philadelphia over his other suitors. The 41-year-old forward said he's not chasing money or family ties anymore — he wants one more shot at glory. "I still want to sacrifice. I still want to work. I still want to grind. I still want to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship," James said. "I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team and I am so excited to energize a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time."
While James's arrival has generated plenty of excitement among Sixers fans, it's also raised questions about how Embiid fits into the new hierarchy. The former MVP has been the face of the franchise for years, but Paul's comments suggest a shift in focus. Adding fuel to the fire, an old tweet from Embiid has resurfaced, adding another layer to the narrative.
During the same podcast episode, co-host Max Kellerman suggested the 76ers should consider trading Embiid, citing his injury history and the difficulty of integrating him into a new system. "I don't think the team can keep Embiid," Kellerman said. "He's a victim of his own excellence in the sense that I don't care how healthy he's feeling in the offseason, he's such a big piece to integrate and then have to work around [if he's hurt]. Every year of his career, it's always something else. If I'm the Sixers, I'm moving off Embiid."
Paul quickly dismissed that idea, but his own comments have left many wondering if there's real tension between James and Embiid. Some fans, however, see Paul's remarks as a strategic move to elevate Maxey's profile. "Maxey can claim the team all he wants, but everyone knows they will still go exactly as far as Joel Embiid's health takes them in May," one fan noted.
As the 76ers prepare for a title run with James, Embiid, and Maxey all on the roster, the dynamic between the three stars will be under a microscope. Whether Paul's comments were a harmless endorsement of his client or a calculated jab at Embiid, they've certainly set the stage for a season full of intrigue. And with Jaylen Brown's ego-free attitude reportedly helping to pave the way for James's move, the Sixers are betting that chemistry will win out over drama.
