LeBron answered the buzzer, slipping a fadeaway over OG Anunoby. Seconds later, the four‑time MVP slammed a put‑back with 11.9 seconds left, sealing the victory.
Coach Nick Nurse hailed the 41‑year‑old’s performance as his best in a Sixers jersey, Jones reports. LeBron logged 20 points, nine boards and eight assists, while Jaylen Brown missed the game with a left knee injury.
He’s been good, but tonight was definitely his best,” Nurse said. “He stayed strong all night, used his size to finish at the rim, pushed the ball to organize us, made quicker 3‑point decisions, and delivered big plays down the stretch.”
ESPN’s Kris Rhim notes guard Tyrese Maxey calls LeBron a calming presence in crunch time. The veteran admits he’s still adjusting to Philadelphia, yet he’s thrilled with his free‑agency choice. For my money, his confidence lifts the whole locker room.
I’m having a great time,” LeBron said. “I’m a big‑ass kid, honestly, and these guys are fantastic to be around; I’m glad I made the move.”
Here’s more on the 76ers:
- Second‑year guard VJ Edgecombe proved vital Friday, per Gina Mizell of The Philadelphia Inquirer. He defended Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson all night, even forcing a miss after Brunson’s three. Edgecombe then nailed a three to push the lead to four with 33.6 seconds left. “That’s the confidence I have,” he said. “If it’s the right shot I take it, because passing it up might leave no better chance.”
- LeBron and Maxey have been film‑studying together, searching for ways to complement each other offensively, according to Adam Aaronson of PhillyVoice.
- Philadelphia will be shorthanded Saturday in Charlotte, Aaronson reports. LeBron (low‑back/sciatica) and Joel Embiid (right‑foot plantar fascia) sit out the second game of the back‑to‑back as expected. On a brighter note, Nurse left open the status of Brown, saying his return hinges on treatment and pain tolerance; he’s listed as questionable with left patellar tendinopathy. Backup forward Jabari Walker, also dealing with the same issue, moves to questionable, while two‑way center Tacko Fall (left quad strain) could debut, also listed as questionable.
- Small forward Justin Edwards remains deep on the depth chart entering his third NBA season. Even with Brown out Friday, Nurse opted for rookie guard Labaron Philon Jr. for six minutes rather than give Edwards a look; he’s seen under a minute this year. The Sixers hold a $2.6 MM option on him for ’27/28, not due until June. Will Edwards finally earn a meaningful role next season?