Even without James Harden in the picture, the Philadelphia 76ers have been playing very well. During the off-season, Philly was destined to fail considering how toxic the situation between the organization and the 10x All-Star had gotten. Harden made it very clear that he didn’t want to perform for the Sixers anymore. Thus leaving them in the dust, scrambling for help. Unfortunately, they still haven’t found the help they need.
Before the start of the preseason, James did not show up for the media day. He wanted to show the Sixers that truly had no interest in playing for them. Harden had initially signed a $35.6 million player option after being promised to be traded by Daryl Morey. The Sixers’ General Manager chose to close all trade talks regarding the former MVP. This aggravated Harden who went on to slam Morey in front of a large crowd of fans in China.
Embiid and Maxey came to play in Philly’s win against the Raptors 🔥 pic.twitter.com/rN9t9YwJQP
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 29, 2023
Despite all the drama, James Harden still attended training camp in peace. But since then, the Sixers have been trying to prove a point. During their season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks, the score was insanely close. However, they ended up blasting the Toronto Raptors in their second game of the season. Philly copped a victory after Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey scored 34 points each.
James Harden awaits the green flag from the Sixers to participate
During training camp, James Harden did not seem like the disgruntled player he showed out to be during the off-season. His initial actions put the Sixers at a lot of risk of losing their reputation. A few Sixers players also protested against the organization and urged the Sixers to give Harden what he wanted. The front office wasn’t been able to give him a maximum contract which leaves them with only one option, to trade him.
Philadelphia has been in contact with mainly the LA Clippers during the off-season. Sources revealed that both teams have been very on-and-off regarding the trade. Philly also was approached by the New York Knicks and Houston Rockets. The Knicks weren’t able to match his value and the Rockets weren’t willing to work with Harden who was motivated to return to scoring the ball.
ESPN asked the NBA about James Harden and new Player Participation policy. League is investigating. NBA spokesman Mike Bass: “We’re looking into the facts around James Harden’s availability tonight to determine whether an approved reason exists for his lack of participation.”
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 26, 2023
James Harden has been absent from the court since the start of the preseason. Shams Charania claimed that he had to deal with his ill mother. However, Harden wanted to return to the team and participate. Sources claimed that he packed his bags for the season opener but the Sixers did not allow him to travel. Harden currently waits for the Sixers to give him the green light to travel with them.