- James Harden is still hopeful that he’ll get traded to the Los Angeles Clippers
- The Clippers are actively trying to trade for Harden
- The Philadelphia 76ers have a steep asking price for the guard
At this point, it is no secret that James Harden wants a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers. Though the star picked up his $35.6 million player option, he did so with the intention of the 76ers trading him to his preferred destination, which is the Los Angeles Clippers.
Though many expected Harden to sit out the 76ers’ training camp, the guard has shown up and been engaged. Recently, NBA insiders Sam Amick and Shams Charania of The Athletic revealed that part of why he showed up is because Harden is still hoping that the Clippers will trade for him, and the Clippers are reportedly doing everything possible to make it happen.
“By taking part, Harden is avoiding the sort of financial fate that Ben Simmons experienced when he lost approximately $20 million during his standoff with the Sixers during the 2021-22 season. But beyond the money matters, league sources say Harden also is taking part because he remains hopeful that a trade to the Clippers is still in the works and believes, for now, that it would be wise to not be a distraction. And the Clippers, league sources say, are going to great lengths to make it happen.”
Later on in the article, it was also revealed that the Clippers have talked to a number of other teams around the league in attempts to get more draft picks. The 76ers clearly want a lot for Harden, and the Clippers are trying to match their price.
“League sources say the Clippers have been talking to several teams about ways to move pick swaps for additional draft capital with the intention of bolstering their offer and getting a deal done.”
It will be interesting to see whether the Los Angeles Clippers find a way to acquire James Harden in the future. He would be a good fit on the squad if he’s willing to play as the No. 3 option behind Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
This past season, James Harden averaged 21.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game for the 76ers. He is still an elite facilitator and would function well as the point guard for the Clippers.
Joel Embiid Previously Gave His Take On James Harden’s Trade Request
There’s no doubt that losing James Harden would hamper the Philadelphia 76ers’ championship aspirations. Previously, Joel Embiid got real on Harden’s trade request, noting that his goal is still to win no matter what it takes.
“It’s been unfortunate what’s been going on, but the goal is to be together and try to win a championship…As far as for myself that’s all I’m focused on. I just want to win. Whatever it takes and whatever puts us in a position… that’s all I care about.”
It will be interesting to see whether Harden actually ends up suiting up in a game for the 76ers this season. He is clearly willing to do whatever is necessary to facilitate a move to the Clippers, and that could include playing some games to showcase his trade value.
James Harden Staying With The 76ers Could Also Work Out
One option that has not been discussed, primarily due to James Harden’s aversion to it, is his staying with the Philadelphia 76ers. Though it is unlikely, it could end up working out for him.
If Harden has a solid regular season and playoff run with the 76ers this season, then a team is likely to pay him in 2024 free agency. He could then get the lucrative contract he desires, whether it be from the 76ers or otherwise.
If the 76ers can’t find a trade for Harden, then playing out the season might be the best option for him. However, it is clear that both he and the franchise want to move on, and the key is for the Clippers to find the assets to make a successful trade.
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