LeBron James had concerns over Joel Embiid’s availability

LeBron James reportedly viewed Joel Embiid’s health as one of the biggest questions before deciding to join the 76ers, according to Ramona Shelburne.

Embiid appeared in just 57 regular-season games over the past two years, fewer than James played last season at age 41.

He also missed games in both of Philadelphia’s 2026 playoff series, although those absences resulted from emergency appendicitis surgery rather than ongoing knee issues.

Despite those concerns, people close to James said he has always respected Embiid’s game.

“James has long admired Embiid’s talent and basketball IQ, sources close to him said. But like many in the league, he had questions about Embiid’s durability.”

LeBron James reportedly had concerns about Joel Embiid’s durability, per @ramonashelburne

“Embiid played only 57 games over the past two regular seasons, fewer than James played last season in his age-41 season. He sat out games in both of the 76ers' playoff series in 2026,… pic.twitter.com/ajp5J66jhI

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 27, 2026