LeBron James faces chronic left-foot arthritis as 76ers prep for new season

LeBron James, the 41-year-old forward who recently joined the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-year veteran-minimum deal, is contending with chronic arthritis in his left foot, according to NBA insider Dave McMenamin. The condition has become a focal point of his morning training sessions with trainer Mike Mancias, alongside continued attention to a lower-back issue that sidelined him for part of his last season with the Los Angeles Lakers.

James entered his 24th NBA season, a record for longevity, and will line up with a talented core that features 2024 champion Jaylen Brown, two-time MVP Joel Embiid, All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey and promising rookie VJ Edgecombe. Betting markets place the 76ers and the New York Knicks on equal footing at +900 to capture the title, according to DraftKings Sportsbook. While James' health remains a variable, the roster’s depth gives Philadelphia a strong chance to remain competitive throughout the year.