Although James Harden requested a trade from the 76ers after opting into his contract for next year, the point guard still remains part of the Philadelphia roster. Therefore, he could still end up returning to Philadelphia next year depending on how the rest of the offseason plays out.
One new Sixer is hoping Harden remains with the team. Patrick Beverley, who played with Harden for five years in Houston, pleaded with the guard to stay when meeting with the media.
“James, I love you, bro. Stay!” Beverley said.
Beverley explained that he and Harden developed a close relationship while with the Rockets, to the point where their families became close.
“James is a really good friend of mine,” Beverley said. “Our moms are best friends.”
"James, I love you, bro. Stay!" 🤗@patbev21 already making an impact in Philly. 💪 pic.twitter.com/nsmWI5zv0h
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) July 10, 2023
After splitting time last year with the Lakers and Bulls, Beverley signed a one-year deal with Philadelphia when free agency opened. Currently, he is Harden’s backup on the depth chart, and he is very clearly comfortable with that role if Harden returns.
The last time Harden and Beverley played with each other, they each totaled over 30 minutes per game for the 2016–17 Rockets, a team that lost in the Western Conference semifinals. However, both players are still looking for their first NBA title.
