LeBron’s “Trusted Defender” Headed to Philly Too? KCP Reportedly Set for Buyout with Memphis, Vetera

　　After LeBron James officially signed a two-year, $8 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, the front office hasn’t slowed down. According to NBA insider Evan Sidery, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope—who won a championship alongside LeBron in L.A.—is reportedly close to finalizing a contract buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies. And guess what? He’s likely to follow the King to Philly.

　　The Grizzlies have a roster mess. Sure, KCP just exercised his $21.6 million player option, but Memphis is deep into a rebuild and their roster is overflowing. Sidery says the team is expected to open buyout talks with him soon.

　　At 33, KCP averaged 8.4 points, 2.5 boards, 2.7 assists, and 0.8 steals last season, shooting 41% from the field and 31.6% from deep. His athleticism has dipped a bit, sure, but you don’t just forget how to defend and win rings. For any contender, he’s still a solid veteran wing option.

　　Remember the bubble? KCP and LeBron spent four seasons together in L.A., and they helped the Lakers snag the 2020 NBA title inside the Disney bubble. Back then, KCP was the perfect 3-and-D sidekick—the kind of lockdown defender every star needs.

　　Here’s another fun fact: both players are Klutch Sports clients. Now that LeBron is locked in with the 76ers, the reunion in Philly feels more like a matter of when, not if.

　　The 76ers already have a star-studded starting five: Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, LeBron, and Joel Embiid. But they’re not done. The plan is to use the veteran’s minimum to grab one or two more bench pieces. If they can land KCP on a minimum deal, that’s a pretty nice insurance policy for a title run.