LeBron James has yet to play an official game alongside VJ Edgecombe, but the new Philadelphia 76ers star has already heard enough about the young guard to come away impressed.
As the 41-year-old James prepares for his first season in Philadelphia, he discussed Edgecombe on the latest episode of the “Mind the Game” podcast with co-host Steve Nash. James said those around the organization have consistently praised the 21-year-old's maturity following an impressive rookie season.
“The intel that I've got from everyone is that this kid is beyond his years,” James said. “They said he was actually one of the leaders of the team, as a 20-year-old rookie. And not in a disrespectful manner, not like he was speaking just to be speaking or thinking he's better – they say he speaks with an intelligent confidence. Natural. Works extremely hard. He's a flat-out player, man. He's a player.”
The Philadelphia 76ers selected Edgecombe with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and he quickly established himself as a significant part of the team's future.
Edgecombe averaged 16 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.4 steals in 75 games during his rookie season. He shot 43.8% from the field and 35.4% from 3-point range while averaging 35 minutes per game.
His production continued into Philadelphia's postseason run. Edgecombe averaged 14 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists and one steal in 11 playoff games before the 76ers were swept by the eventual NBA champion New York Knicks in the second round.
LeBron James sets lofty defensive expectations for VJ Edgecombe
Nash identified Edgecombe's development, along with Joel Embiid's health, as one of the biggest swing factors for Philadelphia entering the 2026-27 season. James believes Edgecombe possesses the physical tools to make another significant jump, particularly on defense.
“[There's] no reason he shouldn't be able to – if he really wants to – be contending for an All-Defensive team this year,” James said, “with his athleticism, with his length, with his speed. If he wants to. If he wants to.”
Article Continues BelowJames also pointed toward new teammate Jaylen Brown as an ideal player for Edgecombe to learn from defensively.
“Obviously, I think JB is going to set the tone with his ability to guard, but I think VJ should be right there, just taking all of the keys from JB, learning all of the nuances, because he has all of the tools. People always want you to, like – ‘you'll get your turn' – why? Why can't I do it now?”
That mentality fits what James has said about his own role with the 76ers. Philadelphia's roster gives Edgecombe the opportunity to learn from veterans with championship experience while continuing to play an important role.
James has specifically discussed wanting to share his championship blueprint with Philadelphia's roster as the organization pursues its first title since 1983.
During the podcast, James also detailed the factors that influenced his decision to leave the Los Angeles Lakers for the 76ers. He discussed his desire to help Embiid win his first championship and his own pursuit of defying Father Time as he prepares for a historic 24th NBA season.
Edgecombe now represents another part of that challenge. James believes the young guard does not need to wait for his opportunity to take another leap.
In James' eyes, Edgecombe already possesses the maturity and talent to make it happen now.