Over the weekend, the Philadelphia 76ers found themselves in a pivotal Game 7 matchup against the Boston Celtics. Following a masterclass performance from Jayson Tatum, their NBA season was put to an end in blowout fashion.
With the offseason ahead, one thing sits on the minds of those around the 76ers organization. What is James Harden going to do this summer? The All-Star point guard has a player option for next season, giving him the opportunity to become an unrestricted free agent.
Dating back to Christmas Day, rumors have swirled around the league that Harden is open to returning to the Houston Rockets as a free agent. Following their postseason exit, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski detailed the latest regarding that situation.
“Houston may be his way to get him the kind of guaranteed money, long-term money he wants from Philly,” Wojnarowski said. “But I wouldn’t underestimate it as just a leverage play. I think he’s very serious about returning. And Philadelphia now, they have strong relationships in that organization from Daryl Morey, starting with him in their front office. It’s going to be a really interesting couple of months.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Houston Rockets & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
The Rockets have a chance to alter the future of their franchise this week as they have one of the best odds to win the draft lottery. However, even if they draft Victor Wembanyama, they still intend or targeting Harden this summer.
“If [the Rockets] win the lottery … and they’re the ones who can draft Victor Wembanyama, my sense is that would not necessarily change the Rockets’ intentions to pursue James Harden,” Wojnarowski said.
Harden, 33, is slowly approaching the last leg of his career. He’s done everything a player can do in the league except win a title. With that in mind, joining a young group like the Rockets doesn’t make much sense.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Houston Rockets & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Landing a player like Wembanyama might make the Rockets an attractive landing spot, but the team is still youthful and inexperienced. By the time they’re ready to compete, Harden will be in his late 30s.
With Philly’s season officially at its ends, everyone will now wait patiently to see what Harden plans to do in regards to his future.
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