Philadelphia 76ers star James Harden has posted a cryptic message on IG amid his trade request. The 2017-18 NBA MVP wrote, “Been comfortable for so long. It’s time to get uncomfortable.”
Harden “still intends” to play for the Los Angeles Clippers next season, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. The 10-time All-Star’s relationship with Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey is “fractured.” Morey and Harden used to be very close. They worked together on the Houston Rockets and were reunited in Philadelphia after Morey traded for Harden from the Brooklyn Nets.
However, Harden is extremely upset at the way in which Morey handled his possible free agency and has made his dissatisfaction clear by requesting a trade.
“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.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Joel Embiid & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
“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.”
Harden intends to “never wear” a Sixers uniform again, sources told NBA Analysis Network. He is determined to get traded to the Clippers, who have Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and Russell Westbrook, three players Harden has a rapport with. “The Beard” was born and raised in Los Angeles.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Joel Embiid & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Harden averaged 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. He led the NBA in assists per game for the second time in his career.
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