One NBA insider has floated the Chicago Bulls as a potential James Harden trade suitor. The former MVP has opted into his 2023-24 player option and is working with the Philadelphia 76ers on a trade.
Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports mentioned the Bulls in the Harden trade sweepstakes since they have two All-Stars in Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan.
“Chicago would be one potential trade partner to keep in mind, as the Bulls have made Zach LaVine available in conversations this offseason, sources said, and could also send an All-Star such as DeMar DeRozan back to Philadelphia,” Fischer wrote. “But there will be many avenues the Sixers explore before finalizing a Harden trade.”
Harden wants the Sixers to trade him to the Los Angeles Clippers. The 10-time All-Star was born and raised in Los Angeles and is interested in creating a Big 3 with stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers & Chicago Bulls Updates
The Sixers don’t have to move Harden to his preferred destination, which is the Clippers. President Daryl Morey has already been active in exploring the trade market for Harden outside of just dealing with Los Angeles, according to Fischer.
The Bulls probably won’t trade for Harden since he doesn’t want to be there. The future Hall of Famer will become an unrestricted free agent next summer since he can’t sign an extension with anyone. Chicago would run the risk of trading LaVine or DeRozan for a rental player since Harden probably wouldn’t re-sign with the Bulls.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers & Chicago Bulls Updates
One of the greatest players of all time, Harden averaged 21.0 points, 6.1 rebounds and 10.7 assists this past season while shooting 44.1% from the field, 38.5% from beyond the arc and 86.7% from the free-throw line. The three-time scoring champion led the NBA in assists per game for the second time in his career.
The Sixers, per Fischer, could be patient in trading Harden.
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