Bill Simmons says LeBron James had a deal to join Cleveland before signing with the 76ers

LeBron James signed a two-year, $8 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, while The Ringer's Bill Simmons says he had a deal to join Cleveland first. The article says no other confirmation of Simmons's report was provided.

James had spent the previous eight seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, and agent Rich Paul told the team he would not return for 2026–27. ESPN reported that the 76ers contract includes a player option. Simmons said he did not know what changed James's plans.