James Harden, star player for the Philadelphia 76ers is in a difficult position as rumors about the potential end of his basketball career intensify. Harden’s NBA career was going well at the Houston Rockets, but since leaving the team in 2021, Harden’s career has been on the downside, raising the possibility of an early retirement from the sport.
Paul Pierce, NBA legend and former Celtics icon recently shared his insights on Harden’s situation on “KG Certified.” Pierce compared Harden with players like Allen Iverson and Carmelo Anthony and said, “This could possibly be James Harden’s last year in the league. James wants to play a certain way. What style fits to where James Harden can go and they can welcome him with open arms and say, ‘This is your team,’ or, ‘Are you gon’ play a role here?'”
Paul Pierce believes this could be James Harden’s last season in the NBA: https://t.co/JCpuAljWt7
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) October 22, 2023
James’ demands for star treatment created headlines in Philadelphia, and when his wishes for a maximum contract were denied, it further worsened his relationship with the 76ers. This issue is not new with Harden, whenever he moved to a new team whether it be Houston, Brooklyn, or now Philadelphia – there’s been a noticeable pattern of team tensions with him. This unstable past raises serious questions about his future in the upcoming season.
Will James Harden play for the Sixers again?
The future looks uncertain for James Harden in Philadelphia. After making a brief appearance in the preseason practice session, Harden appeared to have distanced himself from team activities. His short practice session in the training camp has left fans and team management wondering about his next move.
Daryl Morey, the 76ers’ General Manager, previously was active about trading Harden but currently, he is silent about the ongoing situation, especially the potential talks with the Clippers. According to recent rumors, James Harden might not play this season for the Sixers. Even if a trade agreement is reached in the near future, the legacy of uncertainty surrounding Harden is likely to stay.
The Los Angeles Clippers are looking to trade for more future draft picks as they attempt to acquire James Harden, per @ShamsCharania pic.twitter.com/xuZv0y9rqc
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) October 17, 2023
The Los Angeles Clippers were the first choice of Harden. Teaming up with players like Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and old friend Russell Westbrook. The Clippers have struggled with a consistent backcourt presence, and Harden might help them as he averaged 21 points and 10.7 assists per game last season.
However, there are some doubts. Harden’s time in Brooklyn alongside superstars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving was projected as a dream team scenario, yet it fell short of expectations. Only time will determine if Harden’s potential move to the Clippers will materialize or not. As the Harden drama unfolds, the basketball community eagerly waits which team Jersey will Harden wear this season.