One NBA writer is proposing that the Los Angeles Clippers trade three players for Philadelphia 76ers star James Harden, who has requested a trade from the Sixers and wants to get traded to the Clippers.
Eddie Bitar of Fadeaway World proposed that the Clippers trade Norman Powell, Terance Mann and Robert Covington to the Sixers for Harden.
“While the Clippers possess talented NBA players in Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, adding Harden would provide an additional playmaking dimension to their roster,” Bitar wrote. “Harden’s exceptional court vision and passing ability would alleviate some of the playmaking burdens from Leonard and George, allowing them to focus more on their scoring and defensive responsibilities. Harden’s scoring prowess, combined with his ability to draw fouls and get to the free-throw line, would provide the Clippers with another reliable scoring option and enhance their offensive versatility.
“Trading away players like Covington and Mann could potentially impact the Clippers’ defensive depth. Both Covington and Mann are known for their defensive capabilities, with Covington being a versatile wing NBA defender and Mann displaying promising defensive potential. Harden, on the other hand, has had mixed reviews regarding his defense. While he has shown improvement in certain areas, defense is not considered his strongest suit. The Clippers would need to account for potential defensive adjustments and ensure they maintain a balanced defensive approach with Harden’s arrival.”
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 NBA legend averaged 21.0 points, 6.1 rebounds and 10.7 assists last NBA season while shooting 44.1% from the field, 38.5% from beyond the arc and 86.7% from the free-throw line.
The Sixers don’t have to honor Harden’s trade request since the 10-time NBA 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.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
Harden “still intends” to play for the Clippers next season, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. The former NBA MVP is extremely upset at the way in which the Sixers 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. The three NBA stars have a rapport with each other.
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