Changes have long been expected to come from the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason. We’ve already seen some of that evidence with Doc Rivers being let go following the team’s third consecutive Eastern Conference semifinals exit. Former Coach of the Year and NBA champion Nick Nurse has since taken over head coaching duties in Philadelphia, but more personnel changed are coming.
For one, James Harden will be a free agent, and the current line of thought places the longtime All-Star back in Philly next season, but one of his teammates could be on the move this summer.
According to Matt Moore of Action Network, Tobias Harris is one player he’s “confident” will be on a different team once the offseason is through. If so, the 76ers may have to find a willing trade partner for the 30-year-old forward who once averaged 20 points per game back in 2019.
Yet, Harris is also set to earn $39.2 million in the final year of his contract in 2023-24. Finding a team looking to take on that much salary in comparison to his production won’t be easy. Perhaps finding a team seeking cap relief next summer will be enticed by the scoring forward.
Harris certainly has talent, but at this point, his salary doesn’t match his production levels. His presence on the team has its benefits, but at nearly $40 million, are his contributions really worth it in Philly? That’s a key question the front office will have to answer this offseason as they try and build the best roster possible around reigning MVP Joel Embiid.
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