LeBron James Says Knicks Championship Altered Plan to Join New York

LeBron James intended to sign with the New York Knicks before the franchise secured the NBA championship in June, the veteran forward told ESPN during the Philadelphia 76ers' annual media day on Monday, as reported by RealGM Wiretap.

New York's title victory ended a 53-year championship drought and ultimately shifted James' offseason plans. James explained that he had previously pictured closing out his NBA career in New York.

Though the Knicks did not make his eventual shortlist, James narrowed his final decision down to five teams: the 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, and Minnesota Timberwolves.