Brian Windhorst examines a surprising shift for LeBron James, plus more takeaways from the NBA's season-opening tripleheader. At 41, James played a significant stretch at center for the Philadelphia 76ers in their 106-100 win at Madison Square Garden over the New York Knicks. Despite his long-standing distaste for playing defensive center because of the wear and tear, James took on the role at times alongside Joel Embiid. He defended Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns in many possessions, with Embiid sliding to guard Josh Hart, which helped Philadelphia better defend Towns in the pick-and-roll. James also made key plays as a rim protector, including a pivotal late-game block on Mikal Bridges.
Windhorst notes that James is unlikely to play 34 minutes like he did Tuesday or log this much center time over a full season. Still, the game revealed both the role James is willing to accept in Philadelphia and coach Nick Nurse's readiness to get creative right away.
Elsewhere, Towns was largely absent from the Knicks' offense, finishing with one assist. Jalen Brunson shot 6-for-19, Bridges shot 2-for-8, and New York shot a meager 37% from three as a team. Towns averaged 7.5 assists per game during the Knicks' playoff run against Philadelphia, so his limited involvement stood out. Early foul trouble played a role, but the Knicks' offense has historically been more potent when Towns gets more touches.
The 76ers' ball movement also stood out. Tyrese Maxey scored 28 points, while James and Embiid combined to shoot 9-for-28. Their willingness to share the ball paid off, as Embiid and James combined for 13 assists and Maxey and Jaylen Brown added 11 more. Philadelphia's offensive talent makes that unselfishness essential, and it looked like a strength on opening night.
Source: ESPN General · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing