LeBron James’ 76ers Debut Delayed as Philadelphia Sits Star in Preseason Opener

LeBron James speaks to reporters in a Philadelphia 76ers uniform at media day ahead of his first season with the team.

LeBron James did not play in the Philadelphia 76ers' preseason opener on Monday night, so his first game in a Sixers uniform is still to come. Philadelphia beat the New York Knicks 120-97 without him. The LeBron James 76ers debut is one of the biggest storylines surrounding Philadelphia’s preseason.

Why LeBron James Missed the 76ers’ Preseason Opener

James left the Los Angeles Lakers this summer after eight seasons and signed a two-year, veteran-minimum deal worth about $8 million. He and Joel Embiid were listed among the 76ers' healthy inactives, and Tyrese Maxey also sat out.

Coach Nick Nurse said the absences were not related to injuries. He described it as a preseason call to look at other players early and said he expects most of his stars to play in at least two of the four exhibition games.

Reports on Monday said James manages arthritis in his left foot. Sciatica kept him out of the Lakers' first 14 games last season. The 76ers have not linked either condition to Monday's decision.

LeBron James’ Health and Preseason Status

LeBron James wears his Philadelphia 76ers jersey as he begins his first season with the team.

James took part in the team's public scrimmage on Saturday and called it a "great first step."

The debut matters because of the roster around him. James, 41, begins his 24th NBA season alongside Jaylen Brown, acquired from Boston in a trade, plus Embiid, Maxey and VJ Edgecombe. Philadelphia won 45 games last season and was swept by the Knicks in the second round. The remaining exhibition games offer the only game action for that group before the regular season.

LeBron James, Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid prepare together as the 76ers begin their 2026-27 campaign.

When Will LeBron James Make His 76ers Debut?

The next opportunity is Thursday night at the Brooklyn Nets. The team has not confirmed whether James will play. Two preseason games against Boston follow, and the regular season opens on Oct. 20 at Madison Square Garden against the Knicks