Charles Barkley admitted he was “disappointed” by LeBron James' decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason, with the NBA legend hoping James would instead return to the Cleveland Cavaliers to finish his career.
During a recent interview with Kyle Odegard of Casino Guru News, Barkley addressed James' decision to leave the Los Angeles Lakers and begin the next chapter of his career in Philadelphia ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season.
“I was surprised and disappointed he went to Philly. I was hoping he’d go back to Cleveland to finish his career.”
James' move to Philadelphia added another superstar to a 76ers roster that already features Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey while also welcoming Jaylen Brown this offseason. The collection of talent has created significant expectations for Philadelphia, although Barkley believes several questions could determine whether the Sixers capitalize on their star power.
“The Sixers are probably going to be the favorite, but they’ve got a lot of questions to answer. Number one: can Joel (Embiid) stay healthy and can LeBron stay healthy? LeBron hasn’t played a full season in probably six years. Joel has never played a full season. And the second question is, they’ve got a lot of mouths to feed. So there will be a lot of questions.”
Charles Barkley questions 76ers' health despite LeBron James addition
Health will be one of Philadelphia's biggest storylines entering training camp. James is preparing for his historic 24th NBA season, while Embiid's availability remains critical to the Sixers' championship aspirations.
Article Continues BelowBeyond durability, Barkley pointed to how Philadelphia will distribute opportunities among a roster filled with established stars. James, Embiid, Maxey and Brown have all carried significant offensive responsibilities throughout their careers, creating a challenge for the Sixers as they attempt to establish roles and chemistry.
Philadelphia's overhaul also comes amid a significant shift in the Eastern Conference.
The Toronto Raptors acquired Kawhi Leonard this offseason, while the Miami Heat landed Giannis Antetokounmpo, adding even more star power to an increasingly competitive East. Barkley believes those moves, combined with Philadelphia's additions, have changed the balance between the conferences.
“I can’t remember the last time I said this: the Eastern Conference is probably better than the Western Conference. (The 76ers) have got to stay healthy to have a good season.”
James' decision may not have provided Barkley with the Cleveland homecoming he wanted to see, but it helped make Philadelphia one of the most closely watched teams entering the season.
For the 76ers, Barkley's concerns remain centered on whether their stars can stay on the court and successfully share responsibilities. If they can, Philadelphia will have an opportunity to capitalize on one of the NBA's most star-studded rosters.