NBA star James Harden is said to have played his last game for the Philadelphia 76ers. This news broke a few hours before the start of free agency in the league.
As “ESPN” reports, Harden has exercised his option for another year with the 76ers, but according to the report, the goal is much more to look for a trade partner together with the team. The option guarantees the 33-year-old a salary of $35.6 million next year.
Knicks and Clippers interested in Harden
According to the report, the New York Knicks and the Los Angeles Clippers are said to be particularly interested in a trade. The fact that Harden signed a two-year contract last year (an early contract extension is not possible) and will automatically become a free agent in 2024 does not seem to be a problem for the two teams.
“The Athletic” also brings the Miami Heat into play, which would therefore have no problem signing the star player for just one year.
Although there were rumors recently that Harden would stay in Philadelphia for another season, the signs are now saying goodbye. It is clear that the 76ers around team boss Daryl Morey want to get decent capital in return for Harden – after all, he is still one of the best passers in the league.
Return to Houston probably not a scenario
At the same time, a potential new team gets anything but a “hard-working” player – especially on defense, Harden repeatedly stands out for his passivity and listlessness.
“ESPN” also ruled out a return to the Houston Rockets. Hardens may have been interested in making a comeback with the Rockets, but they don’t seem to have considered it. Especially since Harden is apparently striving to switch to a Contender himself, which would not necessarily have applied to the Rockets.
Will Harden fill the five teams?
In the event of a trade, it would be the fifth station in the NBA for the superstar. Drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2009, he went to Houston three years later. After nine years with the Rockets, he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets. About a year later, Harden was traded again – to the Sixers.
Harden made 58 appearances in the 2022/23 season, averaging 21 points, 6.1 rebounds and 10.7 assists. At the age of 33, Harden is now considered to be very prone to injury and was also repeatedly absent in Philadelphia.
2023-06-30 06:21:05
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