James Harden He reportedly plans to pick up $35.6 million for his option for the 2023-24 NBA season, which would allow him to work with 76ers on a deal away from the franchise, according to the athleteThe Sharanian Sun.
Clippers and Knicks are among teams expected to be involved in potential trade discussions for Harden, according to The Guardian. Chris Mannix from Sports Illustrated AndESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Ahead of Thursday’s news, Philadelphia has been excited all holiday season to bring the 10-time All-Star back to the City of Brotherly Love. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported Monday that the 76ers have been “very focused on getting this deal done.”
“I think they’re willing to give him a salary increase that’s at or close to the maximum contract,” said Windhorst. “The question is years, and I don’t know if James Harden could walk away from a championship-level team if the Sixers were willing to give him a long-term contract. If they’re not, then I guess you could see Houston play his part, but I think the Sixers have the motivation.” to find a middle ground here and I think they’re confident they can pull it off.”
Instead, Philadelphia appears to be standing its ground by not giving Harden a long-term deal,According to Charania. While the Clippers and Knicks are said to have joined the Harden lottery, the Rockets will likely step up their quest for the 2018 NBA Most Valuable Player as Houston seeks to once again become a contender in the Western Conference.
Harden, who turns 34 on Aug. 26, has signed a two-year, $68.6 million deal with Philadelphia ahead of the 2022-23 season. Harden joined the 76ers in February 2022 after the Nets traded him and Paul Millsap to Philadelphia in exchange for Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, Andre Drummond, and two first-round picks.
Last season, Harden averaged 21 points and 10.7 assists per game.