The possibility of current Philadelphia 76ers player James Harden returning to Houston this coming summer looms large. According to the journalist The AthleticKelly Iko, the Rockets will chase aggressively to the escort once he rejects his player option for the next campaign worth 35.6 million.
Harden left the Texas franchise two years ago after Mike D’Antoni and then- general managerDaryl Morey, you’ll pack your bags too. So, the player was disappointed that the Rockets had lost the ability to compete for the ring, while management was not happy with the way Harden handled the situation.
Despite this bitter break, Harden maintains a good relationship with Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta and has maintained strong ties to the city of Houston. Also, former 76ers co-owner Michael Rubin, a good friend of Harden’s who played a part in his desire to go to Phillysold his shares of the team in June.
Sources close to Iko confirm that Harden is considering a move. However, he has not closed the doors to his continuity in the 76ers. The 10-time All-Star will prioritize money, giving the 76ers an advantage, who can offer up to five years and $272 million by owning his bird rights. On the contrary, the offer of the Rockets – and of any other interested franchise – solo It could go up to four seasons and 201 million. However, there are very few teams capable of putting these amounts on the table because of their respective salary caps. Those of Texas do have enough space to do so.
Iko adds that Harden will hope to be compensated by the 76ers for accepting a deal below his market value last summer with the goal of helping the team sign several free agents. At 33 years old, La Barba is looking for his last big contract in the NBA.
(Cover photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
