LeBron James is discovering that joining the Philadelphia 76ers comes with challenges beyond basketball. The veteran forward says adjusting to a team has been smooth in some ways, but spending less time with his family has made the transition difficult. James discussed the adjustment with The Philadelphia Inquirer.
He described being away from his family more often as “a bit of a challenge,” although he said the organization had made him feel welcome. He added that each day was improving and that the energy inside the locker room helped make the transition easier. The family adjustment has drawn attention as James splits his time between New York and Philadelphia and commutes by helicopter.
That routine has become a talking point, with cameras capturing his departures and arrivals. Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green has defended James. Speaking on his podcast, Green said people should “let that man fly in peace.” He argued that James is trying to get to work and return home, and questioned why each flight needs to become a story.
Green’s comments push back against the scrutiny around LeBron's travel plans. On the court, James made his preseason debut for Philadelphia on Thursday against the Brooklyn Nets. He finished with 10 points, five assists and four rebounds in 18 minutes, playing only the first half.
He attempted just one field goal, while making all eight of his free throws. The Sixers lost 114-108, but James offered a glimpse of how he could help create offense alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown and VJ Edgecombe. Philadelphia’s next preseason game is against the Boston Celtics on Saturday, Oct. 10, at 8 p.m.
Whether James and the starters play remains uncertain. The Sixers open the regular season against the New York Knicks on Oct. 20.
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