The Philadelphia 76ers continue to bolster their depth after signing LeBron James in free agency. The Eastern Conference contenders could strengthen their bench as Kentavious Caldwell-Pope reportedly intends to sign with them. According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, Caldwell-Pope is negotiating a buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Caldwell-Pope was in the final year of his deal and was owed $21.6 million. The Grizzlies didn’t need him after committing to a rebuild by trading Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane this past year.
A move to the Sixers would see James reunite with a familiar face, as Caldwell-Pope was a starter on the 2020 Los Angeles Lakers team that won the title in the Orlando Bubble. He was one of their best three-point shooters and defenders. Caldwell-Pope, also known as KCP, hasn’t played at that level since 2024, but in a limited role off the bench with shot creators around, he can be an efficient player.
Here’s how fans reacted to his impending signing.
“How much help does LeBron need?” one fan said.
LeBron James’ massive pay cut would be of immense help for the 76ers
LeBron James reportedly took a historic pay cut to join the 76ers. He signed a two-year $8 million contract, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Last year, James earned $52.6 million with the Los Angeles Lakers. The $48.75 million deficit is the largest pay cut for any player, according to HoopsHype.
With the Sixers’ comparatively younger stars – Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown and Joel Embiid making $155.8 million among them, the Sixers needed team-friendly deals on other players to build a deep roster. James will be significantly underpaid, which allows the 76ers to maintain tremendous flexibility around five All-Star-caliber players, depending on whether 2026 Rookie of the Year finalist V.J. Edgecombe develops into that conversation.
James’ presence also makes the Sixers an even more attractive landing spot, especially in the buyout market. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope reportedly intending to sign with the Sixers is a byproduct of it.
Read more:
- “Can’t Wait Till Sixers Fans Boo LeBron”: Dave Portnoy Claims $1,400,000,000 Star Will Flop In Philadelphia
- “Generational Hate Watch Loading” “Greatest Bargain”: NBA Fans Shocked as LeBron James Chooses 76ers on $8M Deal
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