Philadelphia 76ers star James Harden has surfaced in NBA trade rumors after seeking a way out from his current team for the third time in over two years. Instead of becoming a free agent, the former NBA MVP is now pushing for a trade.
Harden was poised to become the best player available in free agency this summer. However, the Houston Rockets turned their attention toward other players and no other teams with the cap space to sign Harden were interested in him. As a result, he exercised his player option before the deadline and requested a trade.
- James Harden contract: $35.6 million salary (2023-’24), 2024 NBA free agent
Related: Top NBA free agents
The 76ers reportedly aren’t fully committed to trading Harden. While Philadelphia will explore a trade, it’s only willing to move ts lead guard in a deal that allows it to remain a championship contender next season and beyond.
In the hours immediately following his trade request, the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Clippers and Miami Heat emerged as suitors. However, one is widely viewed as the favorite to acquire him.
According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Clippers are viewed as the “likely” team to land Harden around the NBA. Importantly for the organization, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are both “on board with the idea” of adding the All-Star guard.
Los Angeles has floated All-Star forward Paul George in trade talks this offseason, but its front office is more inclined to make a championship run next season. Harden would provide the Clippers with the high-end starting point guard they’ve lacked for years, but it would come at a significant cost for the franchise.
- James Harden stats (2022-’23): 21 PPG, 10.7 APG, 1.2 SPG, 44.1% FG, .188 WS/48
The Clippers recently saved $110 million in luxury-tax penalties by waiving Eric Gordon, opening up the financial flexibility for a bigger move. Furthermore, they can trade first-round picks in 2024 and 2027-’30, providing options in a trade for a third star.
As for the Knicks and Heat, Miami is still being patient with the hope that Damian Lillard ultimately requests a trade. While New York has the assets to acquire Harden, his potential asking price in a contract extension entering his age-34 season could push the front office in another direction. If that happens, the Clippers are the only standout landing spot.