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LeBron James joins 76ers, making them Eastern Conference favourites

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 22:32 · Archive

LeBron James has left the Los Angeles Lakers to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers, making them betting favourites to win the Eastern Conference.

LeBron James has ended eight seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers to join the Philadelphia 76ers, shifting the balance of power in the Eastern Conference. The move has made the 76ers consensus betting favourites at 8-1 to 9-1 odds to win the conference, ahead of the defending champion New York Knicks.

James, 41, remained among the league's top players last season in Los Angeles, though questions linger about how much he has left in the tank as the NBA season opens. The 76ers' other major addition is Jaylen Brown, acquired in a marquee trade with Boston. BetMGM Sportsbook trader Christian Cipollini said the 76ers are "far and away, our most bet-on team, far and away our biggest liability" among contending teams.

The critical factor for Philadelphia's championship hopes may be the health of centre Joel Embiid, a seven-time All-Star. Embiid has played in fewer than 40 games each of the past three seasons. Longtime handicapper Bruce Marshall said Embiid's availability is more important than James: "It sort of all goes through him, and that's been tough for Philly." The defending champion Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson, will attempt to repeat.

LeBron James joins 76ers, making them Eastern Conference favourites
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In this story: LeBron James · Philadelphia 76ers · Los Angeles Lakers · Joel Embiid · Jaylen Brown · New York Knicks · Boston

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