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Dave Portnoy calls LeBron James’ 76ers contract ‘illegal’ over Fanatics ‘side deal’

NBA pundit Dave Portnoy has accused LeBron James of exploiting a loophole in the league’s salary cap rules through an alleged side deal with Fanatics owner Michael Rubin. James signed a league-minimum contract with the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason, a rare move for a player of his stature after years on max deals.

Portnoy suggested the arrangement allows James to effectively bypass cap restrictions, comparing it to Kawhi Leonard’s controversial 2023 contract structure. Reports indicate James has been using Fanatics Aviation’s private helicopter services, traveling between Philadelphia and New York City for practices and games, while reportedly residing in NYC despite his team affiliation.

Rubin, who previously held a stake in the 76ers before selling in 2022, has denied any conflict of interest in his business dealings, though Portnoy claims the helicopter access and free-agent destination leaks point to an undisclosed financial agreement. The NBA has yet to investigate, leaving the legality of the arrangement in question as James prepares for his first season in Philadelphia.

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