yahoo
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, a two-time NBA champion, understands firsthand the transformative effect LeBron James can have on a team with title ambitions. Caldwell-Pope secured his first championship alongside James with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020, and now the two are reunited on the Philadelphia 76ers.
Despite James having played only one preseason game with the 76ers, Caldwell-Pope says the four-time champion's influence is already palpable within the squad. Caldwell-Pope spoke about James' impact following practice on Tuesday.
"Just his presence. His leadership, just being here. Speaking when you see things on the floor," Caldwell-Pope said. "I think he's still trying to learn everything as far as like what to say on the court, you know, what's the calls. Stuff like that, and once he's learned that, I think everything's gonna be great. Right now, he's still trying to figure it out."
For Caldwell-Pope, who is entering his 14th NBA season, team chemistry is paramount to winning a championship. "Our chemistry is gonna be the biggest part for us," he stated. "Us liking each other, being able to be around each other, and having fun on and off the court."
With a 76ers roster featuring All-Stars Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, Joel Embiid, and VJ Edgecombe alongside James, Caldwell-Pope stressed the importance of continuity. "We have so much talent from one through 12, or 15—however many guys we've got—and it's talent everywhere," he added. "So, I think our biggest thing is just communicating with each other, learning each other's tendencies, and just trying to implement that on and off the court."
The 76ers will wrap up their preseason schedule by hosting the Boston Celtics on Friday.
Key Analysis
Caldwell-Pope's insights underscore the immediate leadership James brings, even as he acclimates to a new system. The 76ers' success will hinge on how quickly the star-studded roster develops chemistry, a factor Caldwell-Pope identifies as critical to their championship aspirations.
Originally reported by yahoo.