There’s some controversy surrounding Philadelphia 76ers star LeBron James as he prepares to start his 24th NBA season. Recent reports questioned his use of a helicopter for commuting to Philadelphia and whether he’s violating NBA rules. League Commissioner Adam Silver discussed the matter ahead of opening night.

Adam Silver Says LeBron James’ Fanatics Helicopter Commute Is Allowed if 76ers Aren’t Involved

Silver discussed the controversy surrounding James’ helicopter travel with the media and revealed James is allowed to negotiate benefits into an independent sponsorship deal.

Silver notes that James has an independent sponsorship deal with Fanatics, and including helicopter benefits in that deal doesn’t violate league rules as long as the agreement is solely between James and Fanatics and no NBA team is involved.

Several NBA fans were unhappy with Silver’s comments, with one saying, “Adam Silver is a horrible commissioner fam lol.”

Another fan criticized Silver’s education, saying, “Worse commissioner the NBA has ever had a Duke Grad no surprise.”

Another fan suggested Klutch had influenced Silver, saying, “Silver got the call from Klutch.”

Another fan sarcastically referenced Rubin’s former connection to the Sixers, saying, “Ya no correlation between the Sixers and prior owner Michael Rubin, I’m sure lol. Gtfoh.”

Investigative journalist Pablo Torre is covering James’ deal with Fanatics, while noting that Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin previously held a small ownership stake in the 76ers before selling his shares in 2022.

While Rubin is no longer a minority owner, Torre said there’s speculation in the league regarding whether Rubin may have helped influence James’ decision to sign with the 76ers.

Torre also investigated the LA Clippers and Kawhi Leonard salary-cap circumvention scandal, which resulted in sweeping NBA penalties in September, including a one-year suspension for Clippers owner Steve Ballmer.

One fan mocked Torre after Silver’s comments, saying, “Pablo Torres in the mud.”

Even the speculation of James receiving improper benefits or the 76ers engaging in salary cap circumvention isn’t something either party wants to deal with heading into the start of a new season.

James is excited to chase his fifth NBA championship in Philadelphia, playing alongside stars Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Jaylen Brown. While Silver likely hopes his comments will defuse the controversy, it remains to be seen if Torre will continue investigating.