It has been reported that The Rockets and James Harden have a serious mutual interest.
Reports indicate that the rumors about James Harden returning to the Houston Rockets have likely become true. Despite the Philadelphia 76ers’ potential for improvement, the possibility of Harden’s reunion with his former team gained traction throughout the season. And according to sources, the Rockets are expecting to reunite with Harden in free agency. Harden’s interest in returning to Houston, where he has strong connections and is highly regarded, is said to be genuine. NBA executives also believe Harden will return to the Rockets.
The Rockets were reportedly asking prospective employees about their feelings about Harden
Initially, the rumors of Harden’s return to Houston were seen as a negotiating tactic to secure the maximum contract from the Sixers. However, it became clear that Harden was willing to leave the Sixers, despite the departure of head coach Doc Rivers, who was reportedly having a strained relationship with the star guard.
Prior to hiring Emi Odoka as their head coach, the Houston Rockets reportedly inquired of candidates about their willingness to coach James Harden. This suggests that the Rockets have been considering a possible reunion with Harden for some time. With Houston expected to have nearly $60 million in salary cap space this offseason, it aligns well with Harden’s intention to cancel his $35.6 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers and become a free agent.
Before signing Ime Udoka on April 25, #HoustonRockets The head coach candidates were asked during the interview process for their opinion on coaching James Harden, according to sources.https://t.co/NFOB9pyxmc via @employee
– Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) May 19, 2023
Big void in Philly
Harden’s value to the Sixers was evident as he led the league in assists, averaging 10.7 per game, while also serving as a standout. Primary ball handler and playmaker. Given Philadelphia’s lack of projected salary cap space, they would struggle to adequately replace him through free agency. Considering what the Sixers gave up in the trade to acquire Harden from the Brooklyn Nets on February 10, 2022—which included their deferred and unprotected first-round pick in the upcoming draft, plus Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, and Andre Drummond—they can’t afford to let him go without receive compensation.
Although the Rockets currently lack a roster capable of immediate success, they are considered the preferred bet to land on Harden. Houston is expected to take steps to provide him with a stronger support team, potentially including trading their fourth overall pick in the upcoming NBA draft. On the other hand, the Sixers now face the challenge of finding workarounds, as they lack the ceiling space and business assets to acquire another star player. While the roster that includes Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey remains formidable, Harden’s gamemaking absence will require the team to compensate in other areas.
Following his trade to the Brooklyn Nets in 2021, Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta has expressed that Harden is always welcome in Houston. It looks like Harden will indeed take Fertitta up on his offer.