Did Joel Embiid Expose 76ers’ Interest in Paul George Over LeBron James with Not-so-Subtle Recruitment Act?

After having devoted over six years to the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James is set to enter free agency. Even though the All-Time Leading Scorer will be turning 40 by the end of the year, he is still one of the most sought-after prospects by several of his rival franchises. For quite some time now, the one team that has reportedly shown a keen interest in bringing the player into their fold is the Philadelphia 76ers. The rumors of the same escalated after he was seen meeting up with two members of the 76ers management, though the same was later denied. While some reports highlight the franchise seeking the Lakers scorer, others claim that the 76ers are seeking LA Clippers star Paul George. Amidst all this confusion, Joel Embiid may have just highlighted where the franchise’s genuine interest lies.

The ongoing NBA Finals series did not host Joel Embiid on the basketball court since the matchup was between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks. However, he did make an appearance from behind the scenes by joining as a guest on ESPN’s ‘NBA Countdown.’ Paul George was another player who the crew had invited and were interested in knowing his thoughts. During the conversation, Embiid highlighted his ‘hatred’ for the Celtics. After all, they are the same franchise against whom the player and his team have lost two Conference Semifinals, one in 2018 and another in 2023. According to Statmuse, the 76ers currently occupy a 3-7 win record against the Celtics. Therefore, the player believed that some improvements needed to be made to get the better of them next season.

“Hopefully, this offseason, we find a way to get better and, you know, add some pieces,” said Embiid. While his statement itself carried some weight, what made it more interesting was the fact that as he uttered “add some pieces”, Embiid’s eyes kept drifting toward Paul George.

There are subtle signs, and then there is what Joel Embiid did. By making the eye gesture, the 76ers star may have cheekily indicated that he and the franchise would like nothing better than to have the 9x NBA All-Star on their side. At the same time, it can also just be Embiid’s personal opinion.

Going into the 2024-25 season, the 76ers have a massive advantage on their side. If 31-year-old Tobias Harris chooses to head somewhere else, then the franchise will reportedly have a cap space of over $55.5 million to their name. While this will allow them to extend star player Tyrese Maxey’s contract, it will also give them a chance to add a third player who will form a formidable partnership alongside Embiid and Maxey. According to Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Keith Pompey, the list of players the 76ers are most keen on adding includes Paul George, LeBron James, Jimmy Butler, and Brandon Ingram.

LeBron James’ player option would cost the 76ers as much as $51.4 million. At the same time, Paul George would possess $48.8 million as an option. That is if he chooses not to extend his contract with the Clippers. This makes the latter a more financially stable option. Furthermore, being five years younger than the Lakers star would also assure the franchise that Paul George can be a presence for the long term.

The 76ers have not made any official statement about seeking the 34-year-old. However, several reports still highlight that he would fit the existing roster well. Furthermore, we can now guess that Joel Embiid certainly wouldn’t mind having him.

The 76ers may have their eyes on Jimmy Butler if neither LeBron James nor Paul George budges

Being on the shortlist, both LeBron James and Paul George have a good chance of probably becoming the next player for the Philadelphia 76ers. While LeBron has not indicated that he wishes to exit the Lakers, his free agency can take him in any direction. However, if he chooses to stay on with his current team, and Paul George also will not choose to opt for the 76ers, then the franchise may already have a backup plan in place.

A couple of weeks ago, renowned NBA reporter Greg Swartz highlighted the various trade scenarios going into the offseason. When discussing Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, he underscored that the 76ers trading him away in 2019 was as big a slip-up as anyone could make. Swartz held the belief that a partnership involving Embiid, Butler, and Maxey would have delivered the franchise at least a couple of more Larry O’Brien trophies till now. However, it is not too late for old faults to be repaired.

“The Sixers have the cap space to absorb Butler’s $48.7 million and can sign him to a max extension six months after the trade is complete,” wrote Swartz. “If Paul George or LeBron James don’t show any interest in signing as free agents, Philly’s first trade choice needs to be Butler.”

LeBron James or Paul George: Who would you be willing to send off to the 76ers? Let us know in the comments down below.

Before leaving, make sure to check out some insights that Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, shared about WNBA star rookies Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark.