James Harden is reportedly headed back to the 76ers after agreeing to a new two-year deal with the organization during the summer’s free agency period. The contract, which both sides are still ironing out, is particularly notable because the 32-year-old guard is taking a notable pay cut to remain with the team.
Although the deal remains unsigned, it’s been reported that Harden, a 10-time All-Star, will ink a two-year deal worth $68 million to stay with the Sixers, which is well below the maximum amount he could’ve earned in Philadelphia. He previously declined his $47.4 million player option for the 2022–23 season and now will return to the team after taking a $15 million pay cut.
In an interview with Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports, Harden discussed the decision to forego additional salary, explaining that he wanted the Sixers to use that available money to improve the rest of the roster. He shared that he spoke with Philadelphia president of basketball operations Daryl Morey and encouraged the front office to sign the necessary players before hashing out his own contract.
