The Philly 76ers recently ended trade discussing relating to James Harden and decided not to trade him and keep him in the squad.
It’s possible that James Harden should have consulted his agent before making statements as divisive as his recent accusation of Philadelphia 76ers president Daryl Morey’s dishonesty. According to Jason Dumas, Harden’s agency warned him not to criticize Morey. It’s disappointing that Harden didn’t take his agent’s advise into account, but at least he sought it out.
Report: James Harden agent advised against Morey statement
Considering that James Harden may have disobeyed advice from his own agent Troy Payne, his recent critical words against Philadelphia 76ers CEO Daryl Morey have raised concerns.
Harden called Morey a “liar” during an Adidas media event in China and said he would never play for another team that had Morey on staff. Just days before, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Sixers planned to keep Harden for the next season and that trade talks had concluded.
“Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of, Let me say that again: Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of.” Harden said at the event.
Source: Daryl Morey is unmoved by James’ comments. He is holding firm in his stance that he will not trade him unless it makes the Sixers a better team.
Meanwhile, I’m told James’ agent advised him against making that statement.
— Jason Dumas (@JDumasReports) August 14, 2023
According to Bleacher Report’s Jason Dumas, Morey sounds adamant about not trading Harden unless a “fair deal” presents itself. A source claims that Harden’s agency advised him avoid making any public statements condemning Morey.
Harden’s comments may have further damaged his trade value, giving clubs the option to wait it out rather than make a significant offer in exchange for him. Before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets, Ben Simmons went through a process with similar overtones. Despite the rumored pressure between Harden and Morey due to failed contract expectations, Morey is unlikely to swiftly split with Harden.
Agent revealed Harden’s hunger for success
James Harden’s agent Troy Payne is certain that his client will have an MVP-caliber season despite the persistent rumors about Harden’s future.
James Harden agent Troy Payne says James has a crazy hunger right now and wouldn’t surprised if James Harden was in the MVP conversation next season on The Hidden Gems Podcast @JordanRichardSC @RayMac3 🔥 🎥 production @eadan.creates pic.twitter.com/rIfrkasZ69
— Swish Cultures (@swishcultures_) August 14, 2023
Payne is certain that Harden will have a fantastic season thanks to his constant focus over the off-season, despite the fact that the 34-year-old has reportedly requested a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers.Payne described Harden’s tough program, saying,”He’s been doing two-a-days the last three weeks,” said Payne, who even suggested Harden would be in the MVP discussion.
“James has a crazy hunger in him right now. If he got an MVP season, I wouldn’t be surprised. Just from the disrespect. Just the free agency stuff…”It’s been 07:00, two-hour, three-hour practice, workout, come back. His discipline right now is impeccable. I’m happy that he’s starting now. We got a whole month of August, whole month of September to get this thing going, and get him in the best shape of his career. I think we can get there this summer and I expect him to have a big season this year.”
Payne was so convinced that James Harden will eventually be mentioned as a candidate for MVP that he boldly made the prediction. Harden’s outstanding discipline and commitment to growth have so pleased Payne that he has gushed over the player during interviews. Payne is certain that they will be able to get Harden into the best form of his career throughout the next training camp and season.
