In the NBA, trade value can be fickle. A player’s value isn’t solely determined by their on-court value. Sometimes, extraneous factors can decrease a good player’s value.
For example, suppose a player has made a habit of requesting trades. That’s going to hurt his value. Why would teams invest market value in a player who’s likely to leave them? Such is the case for James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers. As talented as the superstar guard is, his trade value is in the gutter.
That’s a major problem for the Sixers. Harden has requested a trade – again. Meanwhile, he’s allegedly only interested in joining the Los Angeles Clippers. That will negatively impact his trade value as well. Other teams will be hesitant to offer anything to a player who wants to join one team specifically.
With that in mind, if the Sixers do send Harden to the Clippers this summer, here’s how we expect it to look.
The Trade Proposal
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G/F Norman Powell, F/C Marcus Morris Sr., F Robert Covington, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAC)
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: G James Harden
Such is the dance of negotiation. This is how it works in any economy. There’s value in a vacuum, and then, there’s value in practice. The price of gas will rise and fall – yet, gas is gas in any situation.
James Harden is one of the best playmakers in the NBA. Sure, his athleticism has waned. Harden isn’t quite as singular of an offensive force as he was for years as the engine of the Houston Rockets. Still, he remains one of the best passers in basketball. Harden’s on-court production is still among the better players in the NBA.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
That’s not the point. To reiterate, this is Harden’s third trade request in four seasons. There are also questions about his playoff viability. Harden’s ball-dominant style can be solved by the best defenses in the league. Should the Clippers take a chance on him anyway?
Why The Los Angeles Clippers Do The Deal
Absolutely. Put your concerns about Harden aside. At this price, he’s a steal. If the Sixers are open to making this deal, the Clippers have to accept.
Harden may be a perfect fit with this roster, too. The Clippers can afford his preferred usage rate. Both Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are elite without the ball in their hands. With Harden stirring the drink, the two star wings should find more open shots than ever.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
This isn’t especially complicated. The Clippers need a point guard. Russell Westbrook was solid for them in last year’s playoffs, but he doesn’t look the part of a viable starting point guard at this stage of his career. Harden still does, and the Clippers need him. Should the Sixers really send him to them?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
By contrast, this won’t be an easy decision for the Sixers. They’re taking a loss here. Nobody likes to take a loss – especially not general manager Daryl Morey. With that said, what choice do they have?
Morey can’t necessarily play hardball here. Harden is on a one-year deal. Sure, Morey could hold out for a better deal. If it doesn’t come to fruition, Harden will walk as a free agent next summer. Here’s the rub, a better deal isn’t likely to come to fruition. This is probably it for the Sixers.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
It…could be worse? Powell is a solid shot-creator. Morris Sr. and Covington are both quality defensive wings who offer some floor spacing. If all goes well, the trio of Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris will give the Sixers enough top-end talent to stay relevant. The Sixers may be taking a loss here, but this is the NBA – sometimes, that happens.
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