Rich Paul, the agent and business partner of NBA star LeBron James, has criticized ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter's reporting on James's recent move to the Philadelphia 76ers, stating Schefter was "sold a lemon."
Schefter had previously speculated that James was likely to sign with the Miami Heat, a team James played for from 2010 to 2014. On an episode of the radio program 97.5 The Fanatic earlier this week, Schefter mentioned receiving a text on June 30, the first day of NBA free agency, indicating James was headed to Miami.
"My guess would be where there’s smoke there’s fire," Schefter said on the program. "I got a text, literally, I could go back to the date. I think it was June 30th, and said, ‘Just be ready for LeBron to go to Miami.'"
However, James ultimately agreed to a two-year deal worth $8 million with the 76ers, with the second year being a player option. This decision contradicted Schefter's earlier prediction.
During a recent episode of his show "Game Over" on The Ringer, co-hosted by Max Kellerman, Paul addressed the offseason speculation. "All the speculation, as you could see, was so far left," Paul remarked, while also acknowledging the enjoyment of the free agency process. "I felt bad for my guy Adam Schefter; somebody sold him a lemon. It’s just one of those things."
James joins a 76ers roster that is expected to feature former NBA Finals MVP Jaylen Brown, two-time All-Star Tyrese Maxey, former league MVP Joel Embiid, and Rookie of the Year finalist VJ Edgecombe. Paul also represents Maxey through his Klutch Sports agency.
The 76ers are now considered among the favorites to contend for the Eastern Conference championship, according to sportsbooks, though they trail the Thunder and Spurs as the overall title favorites heading into the upcoming season.