Superstar guard James Harden has had a rough couple of years. Since leaving the Rockets, his game has taken a noticeable dip, and every team he has joined after has been a dysfunctional mess.
Still, there is hope in the future for Harden and his newest team. After making a long-term commitment to the franchise, and taking a sizeable pay cut in the process, he has allowed the 76ers to maintain their roster flexibility.
In a recent chat with Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports, the Beard explained why he made that decision and what it means for his club going forward.
At the conclusion of the Sixers’ 2021-22 season, depth was identified as a significant, glaring weakness. Harden and president of basketball operations Daryl Morey held conversations soon after about how the team could make a jump going into the next season.
“I had conversations with Daryl, and it was explained how we could get better and what the market value was for certain players. I told Daryl to improve the roster, sign who we needed to sign and give me whatever is left over,” Harden told Yahoo Sports. “This is how bad I want to win. I want to compete for a championship. That’s all that matters to me at this stage. I’m willing to take less to put us in position to accomplish that.”
A @YahooSports exclusive with James Harden (@JHarden13) on offseason moves, where he’s physically, partnership with Joel Embiid, his wine launch, & why he’s taking less on new deal: [Told Daryl] to ‘sign who we needed to sign and give me whatever is left': https://t.co/jpE3YeOyNN
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) July 18, 2022
Harden, 32, is entering the final stretch of his career. Over 13 seasons in the league, he made 13 All-Star appearances, won three scoring titles, and took home the NBA’s MVP award in 2018.
While he hasn’t been at his best lately, Harden is clearly working to make amends for his struggles and prove to the 76ers that he’s doing whatever he can to win a title.
