Vince Carter stated that the Philadelphia 76ers signing LeBron James to a veteran minimum contract for two years constitutes "cheating" because the team's roster is already exceptionally strong. Carter, speaking on the show "Cousins with Vince Carter & Tracy McGrady," elaborated that James joining a team as deep as the 76ers means he "doesn't have to do much to still be him."
The 76ers have undergone significant roster changes this offseason. In addition to James, the team is set to feature Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown, and V.J. Edgecombe. The team also drafted Labaron Philon Jr. at No. 22 overall and acquired Dean Wade, Anfernee Simons, and former Knicks center Ariel Hukporti. Expected to return are Adem Bona, Dominick Barlow, Dalen Terry, Johni Broome, and Justin Edwards, providing further depth.
This configuration allows Philadelphia to surround James with Embiid, a former MVP center; Maxey, a fast young guard; Brown, an All-NBA caliber wing; and Edgecombe, a notable draft pick. James, who averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds for the Lakers last season, remains an All-Star caliber player. He also led the Lakers to the second round of the playoffs, averaging 23.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 6.7 rebounds.
With the addition of James, the 76ers are now considered among the favorites in the Eastern Conference, alongside the New York Knicks. However, the team may need to manage playing time for both James and Embiid due to James's age and Embiid's history of injuries. James missed 22 games last season, while Embiid has not played at least 40 regular-season games since the 2022-23 season and has experienced playoff injuries.
