From CBS Sports · · 1m 10s
LeBron James helps 76ers depth problem
LeBron James fills 76ers center void with versatile play.
In brief
LeBron James fills 76ers center void with versatile play. LeBron James can play center to help Philadelphia 76ers overcome center depth issues after Ariel Hukporti tore his Achilles. Originally reported by CBS Sports.
76ers center depth problem
Philadelphia 76ers have a center depth problem after Ariel Hukporti tore his Achilles in preseason opener.
“The luxury of my game is that I can do everything”
LeBron James signed for minimum
76ers signed LeBron James for minimum salary to address center depth issue.
“Literally, I can do everything”
James plays small-ball five
James has played small-ball five in recent games but not much before.
“I think LeBron is another candidate”
James center stats
James played 2,133 possessions as center in 2021-22 season with 115.6 offensive rating.
“James played nearly as many possessions there as Embiid played all of last season”
Offensive rebounding issue
James center lineups ranked 38th percentile or worse on offensive rebounds.
“They were a very good offensive rebounding team with Andre Drummond on the floor”
Defensive concerns
James center lineups had poor defensive rating with 115.9 defensive rating.
“The defense was usually bad and often miserable”
Physical demands
James is 42 years old with arthritis in his foot and sciatica last season.
“James is already dealing with arthritis in his foot and had sciatica in back last season”
76ers strategy
76ers should use LeBron James center role in right matchups and when circumstances demand.
“So long as the 76ers strike the right balance, it's going to be a useful tool”
In short
LeBron James can play center to help Philadelphia 76ers overcome center depth issues after Ariel Hukporti tore his Achilles.
