LeBron James sat out the Philadelphia 76ers' preseason opener against the New York Knicks at Xfinity Mobile Arena on Monday, as he is dealing with lingering ailments entering his 24th season.
Besides, the 76ers did not need James, as they easily manhandled the Knicks, 120-97. Jaylen Brown led the way with 22 points, two rebounds, and two assists in 17 minutes. Caleb Love added 15 points, three rebounds, six assists, and two blocks off the bench.
The win, however, came at a cost. Ariel Hukporti suffered an Achilles injury in the first quarter and was ruled out for the season. He signed a one-year, $3.4 million contract with Philadelphia in the summer.
As Hukporti was being helped to the locker room, James was seen sharing a laugh with Rick Brunson. While it was clear that it was not because Hukporti got hurt, haters still blasted the 41-year-old forward. Because this is the world we live in now.
Lebum is just there for the cameras
— Eli Romes 🇺🇸 (@brainbaltazar) October 7, 2026
“He only cares about himself. No one's shocked,” said @TGTatum4_.
“Classless,” added @LgmLee.
“Meanwhile, the opposing team is helping his teammate 🤦♂️🤦♂️,” wrote @v2xtal.
“Nobody laughs when a teammate goes down like that unless there's history. Y'all never played a pickup game where somebody fakes an injury to get a breather and you just know,” posted @its_lauraaaxo.
Article Continues Below“LeBum is just there for the cameras,” commented @brainbaltazar.
Many also came to the defense of the four-time MVP to shut down the false narrative.
James has heard it all amid his unparalleled longevity. He has learned to tune out the outside noise, accepting that it comes with the territory of being an all-time great.
The 76ers will continue their preseason schedule on Thursday against the Brooklyn Nets.