Byron Scott believes LeBron James needs the Philadelphia 76ers more than they need him, arguing that the team’s 9-2 start reflects a roster capable of contending without the veteran.

“They going to come back hungrier,” Scott said on Byron Scott’s Fast Break, referring to Philadelphia’s young players following their last season’s Eastern Conference exit.

The former NBA coach pointed to Joel Embiid as the team’s central figure, arguing that the 76ers already had a chance to compete before adding James. He also highlighted Jaylen Brown’s arrival as another major boost to the roster.

“If he stays healthy, they got a chance, right?” Scott said about Embiid, reiterating that he believed in Philadelphia before James joined the team.

Scott also credited Brown with giving the 76ers additional firepower, saying his arrival strengthened a team that was already capable of challenging in the Eastern Conference.

Philadelphia’s 9-2 record through 11 games gives Scott’s assessment early-season context. The 76ers have won nine of their first 11 games, with their core contributors combining scoring and playmaking.

Tyrese Maxey leads the team with 26.9 points and 5.5 assists per game through 11 appearances. Brown is averaging 22.3 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.0 assists in 10 games, while Embiid has contributed 17.9 points and 9.7 rebounds across nine appearances.

James, 41, is averaging 15.6 points, 7.1 rebounds and 6.7 assists in nine games. His 32.9 minutes per contest rank behind Maxey’s 36.5 and Brown’s 35.8 among Philadelphia players.

Those numbers illustrate the balance Scott referenced: Maxey and Brown provide scoring, while Embiid remains central to the team’s interior production. James adds playmaking and experience, but Philadelphia’s 9-2 record shows it has made a strong start with several established contributors.

The 76ers’ next test comes Tuesday, November 10, when they host the Boston Celtics. The matchup will offer another early measure of Philadelphia’s position in the Eastern Conference.