The 2026-27 NBA season hasn’t even started yet, but fans are seriously worried about LeBron James.
Despite rumors about James returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers, he agreed to a two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. He told reporters this week that he legitimately thought about playing for the New York Knicks, but he just couldn’t get behind the idea of him joining the defending champions.
“I had visions of playing in [Madison Square] Garden and finishing my career in the Garden,” James told ESPN. “One of the best places I’ve ever played. I think it’s the No. 1 arena in the world, as far as for a basketball player. But after they beat San Antonio, I was like, ‘Hey, I can’t.’ I couldn’t do it.”
After leaving Philadelphia’s facility Tuesday, the media noticed that James was entering a helicopter. According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the plan is for James to use a helicopter to commute back to New York City this season.
Judging by the reactions online, NBA fans would prefer that James finds a different way to commute to and from Philadelphia.
© Bill Streicher-Imagn Images.
“Why won’t Bron just live in Philly? Daily commute of 40 mins in the air sounds crazy to me,” one fan said.
“Please stop using a helicopter, LeBron,” a second fan wrote on X.
“I know it may sound silly but I have never looked a helicopter the same since Kobe,” a third fan wrote. “Please be safe LeBron.”
“I will never understand choosing to get into a helicopter after all the famous people dying in crashes lately,” another fan commented.
Strong expectations for LeBron and the 76ers.
James told reporters this week that he joined the 76ers because he has championship aspirations.
“I didn’t leave my family to lose in the second round,” James said.
A supporting cast of Jaylen Brown, Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey certainly looks great on paper. Will their skillsets blend together on the hardwood? Only time will tell.
The 76ers will begin their season on Oct. 20 against the Knicks.
