As NBA camp nears, Philadelphia must work out roles for LeBron James and Jaylen Brown alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey; Kyrie Irving, Tyrese Haliburton, Damian Lillard and Ja Morant face questions about health and form, while Jalen Duren’s team is unclear.
The 76ers added James and Brown to a roster with Embiid and Maxey, creating role questions in a crowded offense that also includes VJ Edgecombe. Maxey is coming off an All-NBA season; Embiid remains a top player when healthy but has struggled to stay healthy, and James is entering his 24th season. Philadelphia’s depth could be tested if either misses time. Camp will be the first chance to assess how Irving, Haliburton, Lillard and Morant are moving after injuries; their form could affect their teams’ season outlook.
Detroit reportedly offered Duren a five-year, $200 million deal, which he reportedly turned down while seeking more. Sacramento is closely monitoring the situation and is highly interested. Detroit’s $155 million commitment to Ausar Thompson leaves less cap room for a Duren extension. Duren was an All-Star and All-NBA Third Team selection last season.
