Sometimes, the NBA’s general managers find their backs against a wall. They’re not in any position to negotiate. At the moment, Daryl Morey of the Philadelphia 76ers is in that exact situation.
He’s never quite been here before. When Ben Simmons was a Sixer and wanted to be traded, Morey had leverage. Simmons had considerable time left on his contract. Morey had room to play a game of chicken. That is not the case with James Harden. He’s on an expiring deal.
Morey has to trade him this year. If he doesn’t, Harden will inevitably leave in free agency this summer. With that in mind, he may have to take less than market value for his superstar guard. Could the Los Angeles Lakers make a compelling offer?
The Trade Proposal
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G D’Angelo Russell, F Rui Hachimura
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G James Harden
On the other hand, we’ve been seeing general managers in tough spots more often lately. Chalk it up to the era of player empowerment. In some ways, the Lakers have been at the forefront of the movement.
Or at least, the players on their roster have. LeBron James is often seen as the forefather of player empowerment. At the same time, there’s some humor in that perception. James never forced a trade – he has only left teams in free agency. On the other hand, his teammate Anthony Davis made an infamous trade request.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Yet, even Davis didn’t put the New Orleans Pelicans in the same bind. In the end, they got tremendous value for Davis. By contrast, the Sixers will not be able to do the same for Harden. Should they accept this package for him?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
The Sixers are in a bind. Did we mention that? This situation will not resolve well for them. Any Sixers fans holding out hope for a superstar-level return for Harden is likely to be disappointed.
What’s going to happen next? We’re not sure. Some have suggested that Joel Embiid is likely to demand a trade soon. If the Sixers digress enough, it does feel like a possibility. If Morey hopes to keep the recent MVP in town, he should get the best win-now package that he can for Harden.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
This might be the best win-now return that the Sixers can get for Harden. Russell can replicate some of Harden’s production, and Hachimura is a solid, athletic young wing this team could use. If Tyrese Maxey can elevate his game, the Sixers could potentially keep contending with their newfound depth. Should the Lakers sacrifice some depth for Harden?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
Meanwhile, Harden hasn’t just demanded a trade. Apparently, he’s only interested in joining the Los Angeles Clippers. That makes sense. Harden is a Los Angeles native. At this stage in his career, he may simply want to go home.
Why not the Lakers? Granted, the basketball fit isn’t as clean here. Pairing a ball-dominant playmaker like Harden with two off-ball superstars like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George makes sense. Still, this could work. If Harden is open to joining the Lakers, the Lakers should be open to adding him.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Let’s be clear: Harden is by far the best player in this deal. It’s no contest. Harden may be aging, and he may be problematic. Still, he remains one of the best playmakers in the NBA. With his general manager’s back against the wall, he could force his way to the Lakers – and be very successful in the process.
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