The future of James Harden with the Philadelphia 76ers has been called into question, sparking discussions among fans. Multiple factors contribute to this uncertainty, including contractual considerations, team chemistry, and performance expectations.
As the league’s situation evolves, determining whether Harden has played his final game for the Sixers brings a window into the team’s strategic direction. Whether he stays or goes, the outcome will undoubtedly have an impact on the Sixers and the NBA as a whole, making this a critical juncture for both Harden and his team.
James Harden told to stay home by Sixers
The already strained relationship between James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers has taken another turn, with the team asking the furious guard to stay at home rather than join them for their season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks.
This decision follows Harden’s offseason trade request and absence from preseason games. He also missed practice last week due to unspecified personal reasons, but made a last-minute return to the team’s New Jersey facility the day before the season opener.
James Harden returned to Philadelphia on Tuesday night with his bags packed to join team on the road for Thursday vs. Bucks and Saturday vs. Raptors, but the 76ers have now asked him not to travel with the team, sources said. https://t.co/N7GONkU6l9
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 25, 2023
Coach Nick Nurse, who is in his first season with the Sixers, stated that he was informed of Harden’s presence on Tuesday night. However, Harden’s participation in practice was restricted to specific periods, excluding game preparation for the Bucks. Harden’s displeasure stems from his belief that he deserved a long-term contract with the Sixers, which was not extended, prompting him to exercise his contract option for this season in hopes of a trade that never occurred.
The Sixers are scheduled to play the Toronto Raptors on Saturday and the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday, but Nurse declined to confirm Harden’s participation in both games, implying that further evaluation is required. While Harden’s status remains uncertain, the Sixers remain focused on upcoming games with the aim of addressing concerns as they arise.
Clippers go in cooldown over Harden trade
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Los Angeles Clippers have temporarily halted their pursuit of All-Star guard James Harden. The Clippers had been actively seeking a trade for Harden, but conversations on the player’s future hadn’t advanced greatly.
Wojnarowski did not say whether the Clippers will abandon their pursuit of Harden from the Sixers, but it appears they are taking a step back and evaluating their current situation. Harden is now not with the team since he is in Houston caring for his ailing mother.
Reporting for NBA Countdown: With the season starting, the Clippers are stepping back from James Harden trade talks pic.twitter.com/6KqCRqrJls
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 25, 2023
It has been suggested that the Clippers may revive the trade talks in the future. They’ve been the top bidder for Harden, and they aren’t interested in competing with themselves. While the Clippers remain hopeful of acquiring an elite shooting guard, they will likely evaluate their situation as the season develops, particularly in light of the health of key players such as Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
The Clippers’ decision to halt their chase allows them to assess their performance with their existing team, which includes a healthy Leonard and George. They may reevaluate their interest in Harden if injuries arise or other reasons alter.
