LeBron James looks like a new man in Philadelphia, and the numbers back up the shift in his mood. The 76ers have won seven of their first eight games to sit atop the Eastern Conference. This hot start feels different from last year because James has finally found a team where he fits. According to BasketNews.com, NBA analyst Bill Simmons believes James realized he might actually make the Finals and is willing to play center to get there.
The change in attitude is stark when you look at his time in Los Angeles. Simmons noted that the relationship between James and Luka Doncic was not good. “He seems super happy, he obviously has a great relationship with Maxey. I don’t think the relationship with Luka was good. And I think we can safely say that,” Simmons said. James knew it was Tyrese Maxey’s team in Philly, not his own, and that clarity seems to have lifted a heavy weight off his shoulders.
A Winning Trend Returns
History suggests this early success could mean something big for the Sixers. The Sixer Sense reports that James’ squads have started 7-1 four times before, and every single one of those teams reached the NBA Finals. Three of those trips resulted in a championship title. If the Sixers can keep this pace, they are walking right into a pattern that usually leads to the trophy.
James is averaging 16.2 points and 7.3 assists this season, a drop from his 20.9 points last year. The Sixer Sense notes that while scoring is down, the team’s structure has improved. James is acting as the main organizer on offense, letting Maxey and the other stars use their skills more effectively.
Managing the Minutes
James is entering his 24th season and will turn 42 in December. Yahoo Sports reported that James himself pointed to the fast pace of today’s NBA as a major reason for the rising injury rates across the league. He said players cannot simulate the full throttle intensity of the regular season during offseason training.
Coach Nick Nurse has already admitted that managing the workload for James and Joel Embiid will be crucial. Both stars missed a game against Charlotte in late October for rest and minor management issues. The 76ers have the talent to win it all, but they cannot afford to lose their leaders to fatigue before the playoffs start.
