James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers is leaving a complicated NBA legacy. He’s one of the best offensive players we’ve ever seen. That’s undeniable. For a long stretch with the Houston Rockets, Harden was hitting statistical markers that only Wilt Chamberlain could match.
At the same time, Harden has his warts. His style of play can be difficult for teammates to adjust to. Is that why he’s requesting a trade for the third time in four seasons?
Who knows? Either way, Harden wants out of Philadelphia. Apparently, he wants to join the Los Angeles Clippers. Here are two deals that get him there.
Trade No. 1
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: F/C Marcus Morris Sr., G/F Norman Powell, 2029 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – LAC)
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: G James Harden
This is not a good return for Harden. We know. Unfortunately, he’s depreciated his own value. Why would a team invest major assets in Harden knowing that he wants out of Philadelphia?
The fact that he’s insisting on the Clippers doesn’t help. Harden is killing his own market. Other teams won’t send the Sixers a star-level package for a player that doesn’t want to join them.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
So, this is roughly it for the Sixers. In all likelihood, they’ll have to settle for pennies on the dollar in exchange for Harden. Could they do a little better?
Trade No. 2
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G/F Norman Powell, F Robert Covington, G/F Terance Mann
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: G James Harden
Apparently, Mann has been a sticking point in negotiations between these two teams. That speaks to how far Harden’s value has fallen. This is a relatively recent MVP. The Clippers wouldn’t move Terrance Mann to acquire him?
Frankly, they should. Mann is a solid young player who does a lot of things well on the floor. With that said, adding Harden would make the Clippers a super team.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
How can they pass on that opportunity? As for the Sixers, this deal gives them some depth. They’re landing three players who can contribute. There’s no denying that this is a sad return for Harden. In the end, that’ll be another mark on his legacy.
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