NBA legend Rajon Rondo gives 76ers' LeBron James ultimate nod of approval for free agency decision originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The biggest name in free agency this summer was undoubtedly four-time NBA champion LeBron James, as he decided not to return to the Los Angeles Lakers. The former MVP practically shut down the entire league for a month as teams waited to see where he would land.
James and the Lakers ultimately decided to move on from one another. Halfway through the free agency process, the Philadelphia 76ers emerged as one of the best landing spots for James.
“The Sixers now have a golden opportunity to recruit LeBron James to form a truly lethal starting lineup: Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, LeBron, and Joel Embiid. On paper, it seems like an ideal LeBron destination after that trade," NBA reporter Sidery posted.
Eventually, James made his decision on where he would play next, and it was with the 76ers.
“LeBron James is signing with the Philadelphia 76ers for his final run at another NBA championship, he announced Friday," ESPN's Dave McMenamin wrote. "James, 41, is signing a two-year, $8 million contract with a player option, Klutch Sports Group CEO Rich Paul told ESPN's Shams Charania."
Many have shared their opinions on James' decision to sign with Philadelphia. Former rival Rajon Rondo, however, commended James for making the move.
“Brilliant move. I mean, he's got arguably the young best point guard in the game. I think he averaged 30 points a game this year. Bron is, like, you know, the king on the chessboard. You know, he has a lot of all the pieces, all the right pieces to make the right moves. We all know he's, he's a great basketball, one of the greatest basketball minds to play the game. If you give him these type of pieces to play with, you know, I, I'm an early bet with them being the favorites to win. You know, and my, and my book, I'm not a bettor, but if I was to bet, I would bet the Sixers early,” Rondo said.
Rondo clearly believes James made a smart decision by joining a younger team that has the pieces to contend for a championship. He also believes the 76ers could emerge as the favorites to win it all.
Rondo’s comments show his appreciation for what James has accomplished throughout his career while also recognizing the opportunity Philadelphia presents. James joining the 76ers will undoubtedly be scrutinized, but at this stage of his career, the move could be exactly what he needs to make another championship run.
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