The Philadelphia 76ers have had their offseason in flux since James Harden handed in a trade request while accepting his player option for the year. Harden expects to be moved to a team that will pay him next summer when his contract expires.
Joel Embiid hadn’t said anything about his co-star wanting out but has now discussed the same with Rachel Nichols.
“Disappointed. Then again, I also understand that it’s business. People make decisions and I am more appreciative of the way he’s handled the whole situation. We are going to be boys forever. I want him to come back so we can go out and accomplish what we want, which is to win a championship. So hopefully, his mindset can be changed.”
Embiid also stressed his personal relationship with Harden, saying that the pair will continue being close friends regardless of what happens.
“Other than that, I am so happy to be his friend. We’re close and we’ve grown since he got here and that’s what I am excited about. I’m excited to keep our friendship for the rest of our lives.”
Spoke to Joel Embiid about James Harden’s trade request – Embiid said he’s hopeful Harden’s “mindset can be changed.” The two were partying with @MichaelRubin last night at the @Fanatics/@TheNBPA Summer League blowout. pic.twitter.com/9sKwp3HGsg
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) July 10, 2023
Harden and Embiid were seen partying together at 76ers’ minority owner Michael Rubin’s house. It’s likely that Harden stays on the 76ers’ for the foreseeable future, as Daryl Morey has proven before that he will not move a disgruntled star until he can get good value. He waited six months before trading Ben Simmons, but how long will he take with Harden?
Will Harden Be Traded This Summer?
James Harden could very well end up starting the season as a 76er, as the team has a longer window to move his expiring contract than the star would want. Losing him for minimal value would be a massive blow to the 76ers, as Harden led the league in assists last season.
He averaged 21.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 10.7 assists in the regular season and had some big playoff games, though he disappeared in the games when the team needed him most. If he gets traded before October, Harden’s last two performances as a Sixer will be his infamous disappearing act from Games 6 and 7 against the Boston Celtics. Harden combined for 22 points on 7-27 shooting in those losses.
The Clippers seem very interested in Harden, with no market forming beyond them due to many teams keeping assets for a Damian Lillard trade. The cards are now in Daryl Morey’s hands, as he will have to weigh trading Harden now versus having to trade him in October because he came into camp out of shape and upset.
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