The LeBron James–Philadelphia 76ers union was supposed to be a dream come true for the franchise. But for a growing number of Sixers fans, the excitement is tinged with dread: Could the arrival of the King actually spell the end for Joel Embiid?
James, 41, inked a two-year, $8 million deal with Philly, convinced the team gives him the best shot at another championship. And on paper, it's hard to argue — Embiid is a former MVP, Tyrese Maxey is on the rise, and Jaylen Brown is a perennial All-Star. Yet that star-studded lineup has some fans wondering if the front office might look to shake things up by moving the big man.
The speculation reached a fever pitch this week on the “Game Over” podcast, where Max Kellerman told Rich Paul — LeBron's longtime agent and friend — that he believes the Sixers should trade Embiid.
“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 shot down the idea, but that didn't stop the internet from going into overdrive. Fans were quick to point out the timing — Paul appearing on a show where Embiid's future is discussed, right after James signed. For many, it felt like a planted narrative.
“Glad I don’t have to listen to Paul talking about which Lakers players should get traded to build around a 42 year old,” one Lakers fan commented.
“Welcome to the LeBron James show Philadelphia,” another wrote.
“If y’all don’t think Rich Paul is behind this narrative you’re incredibly naive,” a third fan added.
“This was so staged. Paul had him say it instead of himself. Bron is a cancer,” an NBA fan declared.
Kellerman's suggestion isn't without merit, though. Embiid's health has been a persistent issue. Last season, he averaged 26.9 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, but he's only appeared in 57 games over the past two years. He's under contract through 2027-28 with a player option for the following season, and his $57.9 million cap hit makes a trade incredibly complicated.
For now, Sixers fans can breathe a little easier — Embiid is expected to be on the roster when the season tips off. But with LeBron in town and the pressure to win now, the rumor mill isn't likely to quiet down anytime soon. As an old tweet from Embiid about LeBron resurfaces, the narrative only grows. And while Brown's ego-free attitude has helped smooth the transition, the big question remains: Is Embiid safe?
Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure — Philly fans are on edge, and they're not shy about letting the world know.
