LeBron James starts season at center as 76ers defeat Knicks 106‑100

James scored 14 points and recorded seven assists while Embiid’s suggestion led Coach Nick Nurse to deploy him at the five spot.

By Felo News Desk · Published Wed, 21 Oct 2026 12:35:26 GMT

LeBron James started at center for the Philadelphia 76ers in their 106‑100 season‑opening victory over the New York Knicks on Tuesday, a lineup change prompted by Joel Embiid, according to post‑game reports.

What happened

The game began with the Knicks holding a 58‑54 lead at halftime. In the second half the 76ers outscored New York 29‑18 in the third quarter, pulling ahead to win 106‑100. James contributed 14 points and seven of the team’s 28 assists. Tyrese Maxey led all scorers with 28 points, while Jaylen Brown added 19 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Joel Embiid recorded 13 points and 11 rebounds. For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson scored 21 points and Karl‑Anthony Towns added 19 points with 12 rebounds.

What the reports add

Bleacher Report noted that Embiid told reporters he suggested the center switch because he was concerned about foul calls and his own three‑foul situation, saying, “I suggested that to the guys, the coaching staff… I wasn’t going to be as aggressive as I should be on defense.” The outlet also quoted Coach Nick Nurse explaining that the move helped guard the Knicks’ pick‑and‑roll with Karl‑Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson, adding, “We discussed putting a 4‑man on KAT… it was good.”
Al Jazeera reported James’ own comments to NBC, where he said, “I could be a lot better… Still getting my rhythm, obviously just a little bit over two weeks with the new squad. But I like the way we played. I think we played exceptionally well, especially defensively.” The outlet also highlighted the pre‑game championship banner ceremony at Madison Square Garden and noted the presence of celebrity fans.

What was said

Joel Embiid told reporters, “I suggested that to the guys, the coaching staff, because I just felt like the way they were calling fouls… I wasn’t going to be as aggressive as I should be on defense.” (Bleacher Report)
Coach Nick Nurse said, “[We discussed putting] a 4‑man on KAT, because there’s so many pick‑and‑rolls with him and Jalen Brunson… I think it was good… Over the long haul, it was very good for us.” (Bleacher Report)
LeBron James told NBC, “I could be a lot better… Still getting my rhythm… But I like the way we played. I think we played exceptionally well, especially defensively.” (Al Jazeera)

How it came about

James’ call with Coach Nick Nurse on an Iowa golf course before signing with Philadelphia was reported by Felo News on 19 October, during which James discussed offensive and defensive roles. Earlier, Felo covered the 76ers‑Knicks opener on 21 October, confirming the final score and key statistics. The decision to use James at center reflects the team’s early‑season adjustments as they integrate new players such as Jaylen Brown, who arrived in July via a trade for Paul George.

Key facts

LeBron James started at center for the 76ers in their 106‑100 win over the Knicks. (bleacherreport.com)
James scored 14 points and recorded seven assists. (aljazeera.com)
Joel Embiid suggested the center switch because of foul calls and his own foul trouble. (bleacherreport.com)
Coach Nick Nurse said the move helped defend against the Knicks' pick‑and‑roll. (bleacherreport.com)
Tyrese Maxey led all scorers with 28 points. (aljazeera.com)