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After reports surfaced this week about LeBron James' health problems, Colin Cowherd offered his take on why those issues likely drove James to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. James sat out the 76ers' preseason game against the New York Knicks, and fans eagerly awaiting his debut will have to wait longer as the 41-year-old manages his body ahead of his 24th NBA season.
Recent reports revealed that James has been dealing with arthritis in his left foot. Additionally, the sciatica that caused him to start last season late requires ongoing monitoring as the Sixers carefully manage his health. Cowherd believes these health concerns are precisely why James chose the Eastern Conference team.
Key Analysis
Cowherd argued that the 76ers' youth and athleticism made them the only choice for James. On paper, Philadelphia's roster is stacked: Joel Embiid, a former MVP, has his own health issues but remains a dominant force; Jaylen Brown and Tyrese Maxey are durable stars who contribute on both ends; and VJ Edgecombe's elite athleticism and motor add significant value. When addressing James' health reports, Cowherd reiterated that this is exactly why the King chose Philly in free agency.
"Socrates had a famous line, 'Know thyself.' And LeBron James apparently did a lot of summer reading," Cowherd said. "A story came out this week that LeBron is dealing with arthritis in his left foot, it's painful, and sciatica in his back. This is exactly why there was only one choice, the Philadelphia 76ers. Why go to Cleveland? Like the Lakers, their two guards don't play defense. LeBron knew about this arthritis and this sciatica. So he chose a hyper, young, athletic team to fit his 41-year-old reality."
It is likely that James will have to undergo serious load management this season. The Sixers have enough star power and bench players to handle that. Fans will be hoping James' issues aren't quite that serious, but whatever management they require, the Sixers will likely be able to handle it.
Originally reported by yahoo.