James Harden was a no-show at Philadelphia 76ers practice on October 18, according to NBA insider Shams Charania of The Athletic. The 2017-18 MVP wants the Sixers to trade him to the Los Angeles Clippers.
Sixers reporter Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer is reporting that Harden is currently in Houston.
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.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
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.
The Clippers and Sixers have made no progress on a Harden trade. 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.
The Clippers 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 Terance Mann and multiple first-round picks.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Harden will likely begin the season on the Sixers, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, since the Clippers are unwilling to trade Mann.
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