LeBron James signs with Philadelphia 76ers on record-low salary for title chase

LeBron James has signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, taking a 93% pay cut from his previous $52.6 million salary with the Lakers Source: elespanol. The deal includes a player option for a third year and makes James the 258th highest-paid player in the NBA Source: elespanol.

The superteam

James joins a star-studded lineup alongside Joel Embiid ($58M), Jaylen Brown (acquired from Boston, $57.7M), and Tyrese Maxey ($40.7M) Source: elcaribedr. This 'Big Four' gives Philadelphia its best chance at a championship since 1983 Source: hoydo. Bryce Harper, Phillies star and fellow teen prodigy, welcomed James, saying: "He's had all the pressure since high school" Source: clarin.

Retirement decision

James admitted he seriously considered retiring after last season: "I thought I was done when the season ended... I was pretty sure I had played my last game" Source: elnacionalve. He added, "I still want to sacrifice. I still want to work. I still want to compete, win, and have a chance to feel what it's like to conquer another championship" Source: elcaribedr. He called this move his "last decision" Source: eldiado.

Outlook

Despite James's arrival, betting markets still favor the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs over the 76ers for the 2027 title Source: clarin. The Knicks and Celtics also rank ahead in some odds Source: clarin. James, at 41, averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists last season Source: listindiario. He will now aim for his fifth NBA championship in a new role, no longer the primary scorer but a veteran leader on a loaded roster Source: abc.