Rich Paul advised LeBron James to look beyond how potential teams appear on paper in July, stressing that injuries, chemistry and roster moves can completely change a contender's outlook by training camp or January.
Credit: AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Rich Paul has revealed the advice he has given LeBron James as the four-time NBA champion continues evaluating the final major free-agency decision of his career.
Speaking on the Game Over Podcast with Max Kellerman, James' longtime agent warned him not to choose his next destination solely by comparing the current rosters of interested teams.
"My advice has been: Don't just value the paper, because the paper in July is different than when you get into training camp and when you get into January," Paul said.
The message appears to be that LeBron should evaluate more than star names and projected starting lineups.
Injuries, chemistry, roster changes and in-season trades can dramatically alter a team's championship outlook between July and the second half of the season.
Paul added that he doesn't know when LeBron will make his decision and that it's not about "attention or the spectacle."
Cavaliers, Heat and 76ers lead LeBron race
According to ESPN's Shams Charania, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers have emerged as the three leading candidates to sign James.
The Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves have remained part of the broader group of teams under consideration, although Golden State has not consistently been viewed as being at the top of James' list.
Cleveland offers James the possibility of a third stint with his hometown franchise and an emotional conclusion to his career.
Credit AP-Scanpix
Miami would reunite him with the organization where he won his first two NBA championships, while Philadelphia has reportedly presented a serious pitch as it attempts to add another proven playmaker to its core.
James himself confirmed that Cleveland and Miami were among the options during his appearance at Fanatics Fest. When supporters called out other destinations, he also acknowledged Philadelphia but declined to reveal where he was leaning.
The 41-year-old thanked the Lakers organization during the event and described his eight seasons in Los Angeles as an "unbelievable ride."
His contract expired after the season, and he informed the franchise that he intended to continue his career elsewhere.
James remains productive entering record season
Although James is approaching his 24th NBA campaign, he remains capable of contributing at a high level.
He appeared in 60 regular-season games during the 2025-26 campaign and averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds while shooting 51.5% from the field. His 7.2 assists per game ranked among the league leaders.
James has now played 1,622 regular-season games across 23 seasons, averaging 26.8 points, 7.5 rebounds and 7.4 assists for his career. He is also a four-time NBA champion, four-time MVP and 22-time All-Star.
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