Rumors should always be taken with a grain of salt. That’s true in the NBA as well. There are plenty of rumors around the NBA. In all likelihood, some are valid – and others are not.
There’s no ambiguity about the rumors surrounding James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers. It is clear that the star guard wants out. Recently, he publicly called the team’s general manager a “liar”. At this point, Harden’s dissatisfaction isn’t a rumor – it’s a fact.
What about the situation between Pascal Siakam and the Toronto Raptors? It’s a bit less clear. Sometimes, it feels like Siakam’s departure from Toronto is inevitable. Other times, it feels like he’s a Raptor for life. Could the Raptors get back to title contention by acquiring Harden from the 76ers?
The Trade Proposal
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G/F Gary Trent Jr., F/C Chris Boucher, F Otto Porter Jr.
Toronto Raptors Receive: G James Harden
Sometimes, the NBA has some confusing dynamics. As a whole, it’s a public entity – yet, it’s comprised of many private lives. We have some window into what’s happening, but there’s plenty that happens behind the curtain as well.
That’s true no matter who you are. We’ve got some sources here at NBA Analysis. We hear things. At the same time, there are conversations we could never have access to. Conversations occur between players and agents that even the most connected insiders are not aware of.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Toronto Raptors & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Sometimes, all we can do is speculate. There has been no trade request from Pascal Siakam. If anything, the rumors suggest that he doesn’t want to leave. As media, we’ve only speculated that the Raptors would trade him to clear a runway for Scottie Barnes. Could the Raptors pair Siakam with Harden instead?
Why The Toronto Raptors Do The Deal
Well, the Raptors need a starting-caliber point guard. With Fred VanVleet joining the Houston Rockets, that’s a void on this roster. Under ordinary circumstances, we’d suggest that pushing for a star like James Harden might be overkill.
This is an exception. The Raptors are capitalizing on a buy-low opportunity. Harden wouldn’t typically be available at this price. His trade value has been tanked by his regular trade requests and his expiring contract. The Sixers will not get market value for Harden as a basketball player.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Toronto Raptors & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Would this deal get the Raptors contending? We’re not sure, but it’s possible. Harden would be joining Siakam, O.G. Anunoby, and Jakob Poeltl to form an impressive win-now core. If Barnes can make a third-year leap, the Raptors could be a markedly better team after making this deal. What will the Sixers look like?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
This may not feel like a fair return for Harden. That’s because it isn’t. Unfortunately for the Sixers, it’s likely the best deal they’re going to find. If nothing else, they’re getting Gary Trent Jr.
He’s a good player. Trent Jr. can create his own shot in a pinch. He can also be an impactful defender, and he provides floor spacing as well. At 24, the Sixers won’t find a better player in return for Harden if the Raptors make him available.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Toronto Raptors & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Otherwise, the Sixers would likely be in wait-and-see mode following this deal. It’s possible that surrounding Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey with a deeper roster could keep them relevant. If it does, they’ll play for the title. If it doesn’t, this could be the beginning of the end for this iteration of the Sixers. Don’t be surprised if Joel Embiid trade rumors follow shortly after.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
