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League: NBASport: BasketballCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Rich Paul discusses LeBron James' decision to join 76ers after Lakers' playoff series

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 28, 2026, 5:53 PM

Last updated Jul 28, 2026

Rich Paul discusses LeBron James' decision to join 76ers after Lakers' playoff series
Summary

Rich Paul shared insights on LeBron James' recent decision to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers, citing the Lakers' playoff success over the Rockets as a key factor. In a podcast appearance, Paul noted that had the Lakers lost early in the playoffs, James might have considered retirement. Instead, the six-game series allowed James to continue pursuing his career at age 41. Paul indicated Philadelphia's roster moves and Tyrese Maxey's familiarity with James as influential in the decision, which followed weeks of deliberation before being finalized early on a Friday morning.

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Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •LeBron James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers.
  • •Rockets series performance influenced his decision to continue playing.
  • •James averaged 23.2 points in the playoffs at age 41.
  • •Tyrese Maxey's role was pivotal in recruiting LeBron.
  • •Philadelphia's moves outpaced competition from Golden State.
Latest Updates
  • 5:53 PMYahoo Sports — Rich Paul explains Rockets' surprise role in LeBron James' 76ers decision
What they're saying
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Rich Paul revealed that the Lakers' playoff series win over the Rockets convinced LeBron James to keep playing instead of retiring.

Related Teams & Leagues
Houston RocketsLos Angeles LakersPhiladelphia 76ersGolden State WarriorsNBABasketball

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