LeBron James begins 76ers stint with chronic foot arthritis

LeBron James will enter his first season with the Philadelphia 76ers managing chronic arthritis in his left foot, adding a physical concern to the team’s preparations for the new campaign. His back is also receiving close attention after sciatica caused him to miss the opening month of last season.

James, who turns 42 at the end of the year, is preparing for his 24th NBA season. He joined Philadelphia on a one-year contract with an additional season available at his choice. The move pairs him with Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Jaylen Brown, while coach Nick Nurse oversees the team.

Living in New York, James travels by helicopter to the 76ers’ facility, a journey of about 40 minutes, and arrives at 7:45 a.m. for an 11 a.m. practice. Before the session, he completes stretching and targeted strength exercises intended to support his joints and back.

His condition will be assessed Monday when Philadelphia hosts New York in its first pre-season game. The schedule then brings Brooklyn and two meetings with Boston before the regular season opens on October 20 at the defending champions in Madison Square Garden. James played 60 of the Lakers’ 82 regular-season games last season and averaged 20.9 points, a scoring mark unprecedented for a player his age.