LeBron faces new physical concerns ahead of season

LeBron James is preparing for his landmark 24th NBA season, but the Philadelphia 76ers forward must once again manage persistent physical concerns. According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, James is dealing with chronic arthritis in his left foot while continuing to monitor the back problems that caused last year’s sciatic flare‑up and sidelined him for the opening month. His daily routine now revolves around meticulous body maintenance.

James arrives at the Sixers’ training facility around 7:45 a.m., working closely with longtime trainer Mike Mancias on stretching, activation drills and targeted treatments focused on his foot and lower back. Despite these challenges, he is coming off another strong campaign with the Lakers, averaging 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists in 60 games, earning his 22nd All‑Star selection. Philadelphia, revamped with additions such as Jaylen Brown and Anfernee Simons alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, enters the season as a leading title contender.