NBC’s ‘The Office’ season 9 spoilers: Dr. J checks in for duty

How’s this for inspired casting? Not only has “The Office” managed to cast a Pennsylvania legend for one of their final episodes, but it is also someone who will bring to mind the incredible “Basketball” episode from all the way back in the first season.

According to Entertainment Weekly, legendary Philadelphia 76ers legend Julius Erving (who you may otherwise know as “Dr. J”) is going to be scrubbing in for duty on the January 17 episode of the NBC comedy. He will be playing himself, but in the context of an investor in the sports marking business helped to be set up by none other than Jim Halpert. We know that John Krasinski is going to be spending some time in the city trying to make his new dream come true, and it is still to be seen if it will happen. (Then again, isn’t this the one guy you absolutely want on your side now matter what?)

This Philadelphia arc is going to be an interesting one for Jim, as he will definitely be forced into encountering a very different sort of phase of his life. Pam is not always going to be by his side to help him out, and losing this confidante in a big city could be a blow to his confidence. Plus, it could also put a major strain on the relationship. This story between the two has been awkward at times this season, with Pam alternating being angry and supportive with her man over just what he is putting her through at the moment to pursue his dream.

What do you think about Dr. J coming on board, and do you think this Jim storyline is going somewhere good? If you want to see what Krasinski has to say about Steve Carell possibly returning at some point this season, you can do so over here.

(Note: In case you haven’t heard yet, John is also on Twitter now.)

Photo: NBC