LeBron James' move to the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday has significantly altered the Eastern Conference's power dynamics, positioning the 76ers as contenders alongside the New York Knicks.
James, at 41, is set to average 20.9 points per game in the upcoming 2025-26 season. This move marks what he has called his final decision, potentially leading to a championship conclusion to his storied career.
The 76ers' projected starting lineup now includes James, Jaylen Brown (29, 28.7 PPG), Joel Embiid (32, 26.9 PPG), Tyrese Maxey (25, 28.3 PPG), and VJ Edgecombe (20, 16.0 PPG). Brown was acquired in a trade earlier in the month and is expected to transition to a secondary scoring option. Embiid, a former MVP, faces scrutiny due to recent injury history, having played only 59 combined regular-season games over the past two seasons, though his potential dominance remains if healthy. Maxey, under a $204 million deal, will see his role potentially shift with the addition of star teammates, possibly reducing his need for 21.4 shot attempts per game. Edgecombe, who finished third in Rookie of the Year voting, rounds out the starting five, bringing his ability to create off the dribble.
Key additions to the 76ers' bench include guard Anfernee Simons (27, 14.3 PPG), who signed a two-year deal, and forward Dean Wade (29, 5.8 PPG), who received a four-year, $39 million contract. Rookie guard Labaron Philon (20, 22.0 PPG), a first-round pick, averaged 18.5 points and 5.8 assists in summer league games. Dominick Barlow (23, 7.7 PPG) is expected to provide a spark off the bench, and Ariel Hukporti (24, 2.2 PPG), formerly the Knicks' third center, signed a one-year deal and will compete for the backup center position behind Embiid.
Meanwhile, the New York Knicks, aiming to build on their championship, will continue to be led by captain Jalen Brunson (29, 26.0 PPG). The team's roster features Karl-Anthony Towns (30, 20.1 PPG), who had a strong playoff performance in his first season with the team, and OG Anunoby (29, 16.7 PPG), who signed the largest contract in Knicks history and played a crucial role in their NBA Finals victory. Mikal Bridges (29, 14.4 PPG) aims to provide consistent performance throughout the season after silencing doubts about his value. Josh Hart (31, 12.0 PPG), known for his double-double threat and versatility, remains an integral part of the Knicks' success.
The Knicks' bench includes Miles McBride (25, 12.0 PPG), Landry Shamet (29, 9.3 PPG), Andre Drummond (32, 6.4 PPG), Jordan Clarkson (34, 8.6 PPG), and Jose Alvarado (28, 6.6 PPG). Drummond joined the Knicks on a one-year deal after leaving the 76ers. Alvarado extended his contract with a three-year deal.
This offseason activity, highlighted by James' decision, sets up a competitive Eastern Conference with both the Knicks and 76ers poised for significant matchups in the upcoming season.