James Harden will likely begin the season on the Philadelphia 76ers, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. The Los Angeles Clippers are unwilling to trade Terance Mann to the Sixers for Harden, who has requested a trade to Los Angeles.
Sixers president Daryl Morey wants the Clippers to send a second first-round pick, a future pick swap and expiring contracts in exchange for Harden. Los Angeles has indicated no desire to part with more than one first-rounder.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
The Clippers have indicated they value their unprotected 2028 first-round selection quite highly due to the uncertain futures of their roster. Los Angeles All-Stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George have player options for the 2024-25 season.
The Clippers offered the Sixers an unprotected first-round pick, a pick swap and salaries for Harden in July. A deal wasn’t made since Philadelphia has valued Mann and multiple first-round picks.
In 58 games for the Sixers last season, Harden averaged 21.0 points, 6.1 rebounds and 10.7 assists. He led the NBA in assists per game for the second time in his career. Harden has not attended any of the Sixers’ three preseason games, has skipped a shootaround and has only participated in one five-on-five live competition in the two weeks since training camp began.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
All eyes in the NBA are going to be on Harden once the regular season starts. Will he play his hardest? Will he get benched by Sixers coach Nick Nurse if he’s not playing well or trying? These are all questions that will be answered soon.
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