This summer, the biggest priority for the 76ers was finding a way to retain James Harden, who was valuable to the team as a playmaker and co-star next to Joel Embiid. Despite multiple reports that Harden was considering leaving the Sixers, most experts agreed that he’d be back to compete for a title.
Interestingly, it seems that Harden has decided to go another direction after Shams Charnaia reported that he’ll be working with the 76ers on a trade out of town.
“JUST IN: James Harden is opting into his $35.6 million deal for next season – in order for the 10-time All-Star and the 76ers to work together on a trade out of Philadelphia.”
JUST IN: James Harden is opting into his $35.6 million deal for next season – in order for the 10-time All-Star and the 76ers to work together on a trade out of Philadelphia, league sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2023
Of course, it remains to be seen what kind of deal the Sixers will reach for James, but some theories have already started to emerge. Obviously, Houston is in play, as they’ve been lurking all year long, but the Los Angeles Clippers could also join the sweepstakes, according to the latest reports.
The biggest question of all, however, is what this means for Joel Embiid, who is now having to say goodbye to his second running mate in two years.
The 76ers Are In Deep Trouble
Unless Daryl Morey finds a trade that brings back equal value for James, this move could have dire implications for their future with Embiid. It’s no secret that the big guy wants to compete for titles, but how can Philly compete at that level without Harden?
So unless the Sixers pull off something special here, there’s a possibility that Embiid grows unsettled in his situation.
“At what point does Joel Embiid look around and go, ‘It’s not happening for me, here, I need to go elsewhere.’ I’m telling you all right now: the team to keep an eye on sits right here in New York City, and it’s the Knicks because they would love nothing more than to put every asset they have just like every other team and say, ‘Hey Joel come play at the Garden, come be around Jalen Brunson and be in a situation that is ready-made for you to compete for a title right away,'” said Nick Friedell.
It’s anyone’s guess how this summer plays out for the 76ers, but this latest development is something nobody saw coming and it’s sure to make the next 24 hours even more interesting than they already were.
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