LeBron James reveals preferred landing spot: I backed out because I knew it would spark a backlash
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Rumors swirled around the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, with many believing "The King" would succumb to nostalgia and stage his last dance at one of the two franchises where he left his deepest mark. In the end, however, LeBron chose the Philadelphia 76ers.
During an appearance on Steve Nash's podcast, James revealed that one of the main reasons he joined Philly was Tyrese Maxey. But during Media Day with ESPN, he also admitted that alongside the Sixers, his other top destination was the New York Knicks.
However, once the Knicks conquered the NBA last season, James dropped that idea entirely.
"I envisioned playing at Madison Square Garden and finishing my career with the New York Knicks. The Garden is one of the best places I've ever played in. But after the Knicks beat San Antonio, I thought, 'Hey, I can't.' I couldn't do it. That idea was impossible; it would have triggered a massive backlash. Huge respect to the Knicks. Incredible team, incredible players. Hats off to Jalen Brunson. I love that guy, he's amazing. But I am where I am now, and I'm happy." — LeBron James
As for playing at the Garden, LeBron has nothing to worry about. Philadelphia visits the Knicks on October 20 for their NBA season opener, and again on February 27. Naturally, there is also a strong possibility they cross paths in the playoffs, considering both teams compete in the Eastern Conference.
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