In the aftermath of the Jaylen Brown acquisition, the Philadelphia 76ers have situated themselves as a prime contender for LeBron James. But given Brown’s previous comments about Bronny, many are wondering if James would even be open to pairing with the former Celtics swingman.
LeBron, after all, has a famously great memory, and it would be easy to hold a grudge against someone who spoke against his son. Yet, according to the latest intel from insider Jason Dumas, there is currently no animosity or beef between the two NBA veterans, and certainly nothing that would cause them to object to being teammates next season.
“LeBron James would have no issues teaming with Jaylen Brown despite JB’s comments on Bronny,” wrote Dumas on X. “I know both have somewhat cleared the air publicly, but I was told directly — it is not a focus, LeBron has ‘moved on.’ Obviously this is relevant with the Sixers’ pursuit of LBJ.”
Jaylen Brown and LeBron James have always held mutual respect, but their relationship was tested leading up to Bronny’s rookie season. During a Lakers Summer League game against the Celtics that summer, Brown was in attendance to watch Bronny play, and he was thoroughly unimpressed. At one point, he was even caught telling Kysre Gondrezick that the young point guard was not a pro-level player, and that he was only on the Lakers because of his name alone. It was a widely held belief at the time, especially with Bronny’s modest college tenure.
Still, after those comments, most assumed that James would effectively shut out Jaylen Brown. In the past, LeBron has always been very protective of his kids, and he once famously checked Stephen A. Smith courtside over a dispute involving Bronny. In Jaylen’s case, however, LeBron did not make a fuss or acknowledge his comments. If he felt any certain way at the time, he’s long since over it now, and it’s good news for the 76ers.
With Philadelphia officially in the race for his services, it means Brown and James could soon go from rivals to teammates in the NBA. Better yet, if the 76ers can bring both LeBron and Bronny along, it would only make things even more interesting in the locker room. That’s not to mention the potential for greatness on the court.
For now, all indications are that LeBron is taking a different path (likely the Cavaliers, Warriors, or Heat), but where does it leave his son? With another two years and $4.6 million on his deal (including a team option for 2027-28), Bronny has plenty of time to find his way, but he won’t have his dad to hold his hand anymore. That is, unless he ends up in Philly.
For LeBron, at this stage of his career, all possibilities are being considered. Favoring a competitive situation and “basketball happiness,” James is willing to leave millions on the line to pursue the ideal ending to his NBA career. The 76ers could be a place he finds that ending, and it’s fortunate for them that LeBron does not hold a grudge against their newest star acquisition.
