James Harden “still intends” to play for the Los Angeles Clippers next NBA season, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. The 2017-18 MVP has requested a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers and only wants to get traded to the Clippers.
“Let’s be clear: No matter the Sixers’ wishes, Harden still intends to play for the Clippers during the 2022-23 season, league sources told Yahoo Sports,” Fischer wrote. “Since the beginning of this subplot, Harden and his representation opted in to pinpoint Los Angeles as his next destination and have maintained a confidence he will ultimately join the Clippers.
“There has been no substantial trade conversation for Philadelphia regarding Harden and any other team, sources said, as rival front offices have been briefed on Harden’s unwavering focus on the Clippers and the Clippers alone. The 76ers have held talks with other teams and have established their high asking price for the league’s assist leader.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
After Harden learned about the Sixers’ plans to not give him a max deal this summer, he opted into his player option for next season and requested a trade. The future Hall of Famer believes he should be compensated fairly after averaging 21.0 points, 6.1 rebounds and 10.7 assists last season while shooting 44.1% from the field, 38.5% from beyond the arc and 86.7% from the free-throw line.
Harden is extremely upset at the way in which Philly handled his possible free agency and has made his dissatisfaction clear to the franchise. There is strong optimism on Harden’s side that he will be traded to the Clippers since both Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are said to be on board with the idea of Harden potentially joining them in Los Angeles.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
The Sixers don’t have to honor Harden’s trade request since the 10-time All-Star doesn’t have a no-trade clause in his contract. However, Harden requested trades from both the Houston Rockets and Brooklyn Nets and got his wish, so history shows that he’ll eventually get traded by the Sixers.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
