“Free Agents Don’t Go to Certain Cities”: Joel Embiid and Philly Blamed for ‘Scaring’ Away LeBron James and Paul George

The Philadelphia 76ers’ title aspirations came crashing from the moment Joel Embiid had to undergo surgery to repair his meniscus. The MVP favorite did return for the postseason, however, still hobbled by other ailments. As expected, a blooming Tyrese Maxey couldn’t shoulder the burden without a domineering Embiid punishing the defense. Since the loss in the first round, the franchise is reportedly longing to add a third star through free agency. Head of Basketball Operation Daryl Morey is said to be getting in the hunt to sign either LeBron James or Paul George.

However, when Gilbert Arenas learned of the news, he was astonished. Expanding on it, a confused Agent Zero felt the prospect of playing with a 30-year-old Joel Embiid, no matter how overpowering he might be wasn’t enough to entice any top free agent talent to join the Sixers. “I mean how many top free agents actually went to Philly? Yeah so they can use Embiid all they want. It’s Philadelphia themselves. A lot of top free agents don’t go to certain cities so that’s already hurting the team” he said on Gil’s Arena.

Turning 40 in the next season, James has a player option with the Los Angeles Lakers. According to NBA sources, it is believed the Akron Hammer will opt out only to sign a 3-year $162 million extension with the Purple and Gold. Morey believes he can lure King James with the offer of playing with Embiid, a perennial MVP candidate, and Maxey, a dynamic scorer who earned his first All-Star honors this season.

Paul George, 34 is yet to negotiate an extension with the Los Angeles Clippers. The two-way beast is eligible to sign a four-year $221 million extension if he decides to opt out of his player option. However, the Clippers aren’t moved to pay George that sum with some saying the franchise won’t offer a dime over what they offered Kawhi Leonard in January, three years for $152.4 million. The stalemate in their contract discussions could open the door for George to sign with the Sixers.

It’s unclear whether the allure of Philly is as unattractive as Arenas claims. However, barring their reputation, the Sixers have all the resources and motive to sign a third star in the offseason. There are of course other free agents in the market. Knicks’ OG Anunoby is also said to be a target for the Sixers.

Such urgency is largely due to Joel Embiid’s proneness to injury. Relishing his prime, ‘The Process’ has been crippled with injuries throughout his career. Last season, he only participated in 39 games. Over his career, he has never played over 70 games even once. With the fear of Embiid’s looming health issues, a third star besides Maxey gives the team another option to deter.

Whether the dream for a third star gets fulfilled or not is unknown. However, this year’s free agency is going to be electrifying.

LeBron James was very close to joining the Sixers in 2018

In 2018, during his second stint with the Cavaliers, James had grown frustrated with their incompetence. After a record eighth straight finals appearances ended in a loss, he decided not to opt into his player option with Cleveland. Several teams met with his representatives, one of which was the Sixers.

At the time the franchise were eager to sign the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Additionally, it was believed the 20-time All-Star was genuinely interested in the prospect of playing with a young Joel Embiid and daunting point guard Ben Simmons. The Sixers met with Rich Paul. Ultimately, the thrill of the ride subsided when he signed with the Los Angeles Lakers.

We are at a similar stage once again. James can become an unrestricted free agent. Philadelphia has a championship core that can stay relevant for a few years of the four-time MVP. Even though the scenario is slightly different, the potential of a title might be higher with the current Sixers roster as compared to the Ben Simmons era.

Morey made a second effort during the trade deadline this season. He called Rob Pelinka to discuss the availability of James during the window. However, the Lakers GM quickly fended off his attempt.

Will James relocate in the offseason or will he abide by his promise to the Laker Nation? For more stirring content, make sure to watch our interview with Leonard Armato, a former agent of Shaq in the video below.