James Harden remains an integral member of the Philadelphia 76ers team despite his constant desire to leave the franchise. Harden does have a bad reputation when it comes to switching teams in the NBA. Not only has he requested to be traded, but he also didn’t show up for the Sixers media day on Oct. 2nd and the first day of practice camp.
Recently, NBA analysts have been discussing much about Harden’s situation with the Sixers. A former coach of the franchise had to offer a piece of advice to James Harden during his recent appearance on NBA Today.
Doc Rivers offers solid advice for James Harden
Legendary NBA coach Doc Rivers, now working as an ESPN analyst, recently discussed his relationship with Harden and the decline in the Sixers star’s bond with Daryl Morey. During his appearance on ESPN’s NBA Today on Wednesday, former 76ers coach Doc Rivers offered some advice to James Harden.
Doc Rivers told Harden to “just play and it will work out.” Doc said, “James is a terrific player. If he has to go to Philadelphia, clearly that’s not the situation that he wants to be in, going by what he’s said. Just go and play. Be a pro, and I think it will all work out.”
Rivers was sacked by the Sixers on May 16 earlier this year, as he faced significant criticism for the Sixers’ 112-88 loss to the Celtics in Game 7 on May 14 during the Eastern Conference semifinals at TD Garden. This marked the third consecutive season of Rivers’ squad being eliminated in the second round of the playoffs.
During the interview, Rivers was referring to Harden’s trade requests in his advice. Harden stirred controversy on Aug. 14 while visiting China to engage with fans and participate in promotional events. He called Sixers president of basketball operations, Daryl Morey, “a liar” and made it known that he would not be part of any organization that involved Morey. NBA fans and enthusiasts alike would only wish that James Harden harkened to the professional advice of Doc Rivers.
What is the relationship between Doc Rivers and James Harden?
The trouble in Philadelphia is no secret, especially with star guard James Harden seemingly persisting with his trade request. The ultimate outcome remains uncertain. The former 76ers head coach Doc Rivers recently shared his thoughts on his relationship with Harden during an appearance on ESPN’s NBA Today. Doc Rivers who has coached Harden for one and a half seasons told everyone, they weren’t necessarily close and called it a relationship of communication.
Doc said, “It wasn’t bad, it wasn’t good.” He continued, “It was pretty much neutral. It was an honest relationship at the end of the day. I was very honest. I really believe there’s ways you have to play to win and, obviously, I was never willing to compromise on that. It was a relationship of communication. I can tell you, we talked when we needed to talk all the time.”
Despite their candid communication, the relationship didn’t translate into significant postseason achievements. Doc was eventually dismissed after a series of postseason failures, and the 76ers brought in Nick Nurse to replace him during the offseason, expectedly to build on what Doc Rivers has achieved with James Harden and Joel Embiid.
What are your thoughts on James Harden’s future with the Sixers? Share your take with us in the comments.
