Expectations are high in Philadelphia this season, thanks to the arrival of Daryl Morey and head coach Doc Rivers. In just their first few weeks with the franchise, a number of moves have been made that will add much-needed depth and three-point shooting to the roster.
Apparently, something bigger may be cooking.
According to Marc Stein of the New York Times, the 76ers are being seen around the league as the frontrunners in the James Harden sweepstakes.
As the NBA preseason begins tonight Philadelphia ranks as the most likely destination when the Rockets eventually reach the point of trading James Harden, league sources say
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) December 11, 2020
Harden, who requested a trade from the Rockets earlier this month, has put several teams on his list of desirable locations — including the Sixers. Where he’ll go, and when, will depend on the Rockets themselves, who have (so far) been reluctant to move on from their superstar guard.
The Rockets insist (for now) they will not trade Harden. The Sixers insist (for now) they will not trade Ben Simmons
But sources say the familiarity between the front offices can ultimately defuse any lingering tension from Daryl Morey's departure from Houston to Philadelphia
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) December 11, 2020
With Harden now practicing with his team, and preseason action set to begin, nobody quite knows how the situation will play out over the next few days and weeks.
But if there is a team out there even close to getting him Philly might be it — especially considering Daryl Morey and his history with No. 13. He knows first-hand just how special the guy really is.
