James Harden took to social media to call out ESPN for spreading “lies” about him. NBA insider Ramona Shelburne of ESPN published an extensive piece about Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers. Inside the story, Shelburne reported that Harden wasn’t happy that he wasn’t voted as an All-Star last season. The 2017-18 MVP had the opportunity to be picked as an injury replacement, but he didn’t get back to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver in time, according to Shelburne’s report.
Last season was the first time since 2011-12 Harden didn’t make an All-Star team. The veteran guard finished the campaign averaging 21.0 points, 6.1 rebounds and 10.7 assists. Harden led the NBA in assists per game for the second time in his career.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Harden wants the Sixers to trade him to the Los Angeles Clippers, per multiple reports. However, Philadelphia doesn’t have to honor the trade request since Harden doesn’t have a no-trade clause in his contract. The Sixers expect Harden to report to training camp this month, but the NBA legend doesn’t plan to come, sources told NBA Analysis Network.
A future Hall of Famer, Harden has career averages of 24.7 points, 5.6 rebounds and 7.0 assists with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets and Sixers. He turned 34 on August 26.
Harden felt that Sixers president Daryl Morey was “ghosting” him before free agency started, per Shelburne. Rather than wait for Morey and the Sixers to present whatever offer they had come up with once free agency opened on July 1, Harden decided to pick up his $35.6 million player option before the June 30 deadline and request a trade.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
The Sixers agreed to search out a trade upon Harden’s request after the talented guard picked up his $35.6 million player option for next season in June. However, Philadelphia’s asking price for Harden was steep and no teams were willing or able to meet it, per multiple reports.
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