In his first media chat since joining the Sixers, James Harden opened up about everything that happened over the past few months.
In a telling reveal, he explained why he chose to walk away from a star-studded Nets team after just 44 games.
“For the most part, we can control our own destiny. For me, knowing Daryl knowing Doc, it made sense man. It’s a time when I needed to be around guys that I know want to win and are willing to do whatever it takes to win. The structure here is unbelievable.”
James Harden on player empowerment in the NBA:
"We can control our own destiny. I needed to be around guys that I know want to win and are willing to do whatever it takes to win." pic.twitter.com/tcxGFEBrfp
— Nets Videos (@SNYNets) February 15, 2022
While Harden did not specifically call out any individual player, it’s hard to ignore Kyrie’s role in his departure. With him, KD, and James on the floor, the Nets would have been unstoppable in the East. Unfortunately, Irving chose to dodge the vaccine and his limited availability compromised the team’s performance.
“Me and Kyrie are really good friends. Whatever he was going through and still going through, that’s his personal preference. But he did impact the team because me, Kyrie, and KD on the court and winning covers up a lot of that stuff,” said Harden. “It was unfortunate that we played 16 games out of whatever it was, but it is what it is. Here in Philly is an opportunity that I’m looking forward to.”
After failed tenures in Houston and Brooklyn, Harden has another chance to lead a new team to glory. It remains to be seen how far he will take the Sixers, but his talent as a scorer and playmaker will only enhance the skills of Joel Embiid.
Meanwhile, in Brooklyn, the nets are still facing many questions about their future. Will Kyrie Irving return to full-time status this season? Will Kevin Durant stay healthy for the rest of this campaign? Can Ben Simmons fill the void left by Harden’s departure?
Needless to say, it will be interesting to see how these teams fare in the aftermath of such a huge trade, and if Harden will come to regret leaving such a promising superteam behind.
