The Philadelphia 76ers have reached out to express interest in signing LeBron James, who is exploring his options in free agency.

Philadelphia's pursuit comes hours after the franchise completed a blockbuster trade for Jaylen Brown, sending Paul George and multiple draft picks to the Boston Celtics. The Sixers have now entered the mix for James, who became an unrestricted free agent following eight seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Philadelphia already has enough scoring, depth and playmaking at the top of its roster to allow James to settle into a complementary role.

With or without James, the 76ers project as legitimate championship contenders next season. The Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat are also viewed as frontrunners in the pursuit of James. The Denver Nuggets, like the Sixers, have reached out with interest in James.

James has instructed his agent, Rich Paul, to collect his options to present to him in the coming days.