Few NBA players in history have exercised their power as prolifically as future Hall of Fame guard James Harden. First, Harden successfully demanded a trade from the Rockets in Nov. 2020, eventually landing himself on the Nets. In Feb. 2022, he was traded again, from Brooklyn to the 76ers.
Now, Harden is attempting to force his way off Philadelphia in an attempt to join the Clippers—a move that has put the team “in precarious position,” per Jake Fischer of Yahoo! Sports.
Nevertheless, Fischer indicated in a Wednesday afternoon report that Harden is expected to report to training camp if not dealt this summer.
“If this saga does drag out through September and until media day on Oct. 2, Harden is expected at this point to report to training camp, according to league sources,” Fischer wrote. “You can cause far more headaches for the organization you’re trying to leave by showing up, as opposed to staying home.”
Harden averaged 21 points in 58 games for the 76ers in 2023, the first year he missed the All-Star team since 2012 with the Thunder. His play helped propel Philadelphia to within a win of the Eastern Conference finals, but he scored just nine points in the 76ers’ Game 7 loss to the Celtics.
