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LeBron James Reveals How Close He Was to Joining Knicks — and the Main Reason He Didn't
James said New York was his top free-agent choice before the Knicks' championship run changed his plans, leading him to sign with Philadelphia.
- On Monday, LeBron James revealed he envisioned finishing his career with the New York Knicks before their first NBA championship in 53 years changed his thinking. James instead signed a two-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers.
- Concerned about media backlash, James felt he could not join the reigning champions after they defeated the San Antonio Spurs. "Y'all wouldn't have let me lay that down, at all," James said, explaining his decision.
- Agent Rich Paul indicated James would have joined New York had they fallen short of the title. James considered five finalists: the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves before choosing Philadelphia.
- Philadelphia opens the 2026 NBA season against the Knicks on October 20, when the reigning champions will raise their championship banner. Finals MVP Jalen Brunson will lead the Knicks in this season-opening matchup.
- Despite signing with Philadelphia, James maintains deep affection for Madison Square Garden, calling it "1 arena in the world." The veteran plans to split his time between Philadelphia and New York throughout his 24th season.
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LeBron James drops a reality check on why he passed on playing for the Knicks
LeBron James’ free agency ended with him signing a two-year deal to join the Philadelphia 76ers. However, it turns out that James once envisioned himself playing with the New York Knicks, but their NBA Finals victory ended those dreams, according to Dave McMenamin of ESPN. “I had visions of playing in [Madison Square] Garden and …
Coverage Details
Total News Sources11
Leaning Left1Leaning Right1Center6Last UpdatedBias Distribution75% Center
Bias Distribution
- 75% of the sources are Center
75% Center
13%
C 75%
12%
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