Deadspin: LeBron James Calls Center Role Temporary, Citing the 76ers’ MVP

James fills in at center

James made his first start at center since the 2021-22 season, and the 15th such start in his 24-year career. The 6-foot-9 forward finished with 18 points, five assists and two rebounds against Paul Reed.

The 76ers lost 106-93 to the Detroit Pistons on Sunday. James said he can handle the position, but does not view it as a lasting assignment.

Embiid remains unavailable

Joel Embiid, the league MVP in 2022-23, is managing plantar fasciitis in his right foot. Three other Philadelphia big men are also out: Jabari Walker with a knee injury, Dominick Barlow with a back issue and Tacko Fall with a quad injury.

James said the presence of Embiid makes a permanent center role unnecessary. He described Embiid as the team’s MVP and said the team has him to play the position.

Bona earns James’ praise

Adem Bona played a season-high 25 minutes off the bench on Sunday. He recorded six points and 13 rebounds. James praised Bona’s energy and effort after the game. Philadelphia has three more games this week, starting with a visit to the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday.

Three games ahead

The 76ers host the New York Knicks on Friday before visiting the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday. James has appeared in three of the team’s four games this season.

He sat out Saturday’s win over the Milwaukee Bucks to manage sciatica. Philadelphia enters the week with a 3-1 record.