James Harden Rumors: 76ers Eyeing Unique Contract That Makes Sense for Both Sides

Amid rumors linking James Harden to an exit from Philadelphia, the 76ers are peaceable eyeing a contract “that is colorful within the immediate and long time duration for all aspects,” per John Clark of NBC Sports activities Philadelphia.

Harden is expected to pronounce no his $35.6 million participant choice for 2023-24 to turn actual into a free agent hunting for a more profitable deal this summer.

The Houston Rockets are viewed as one in every of the top competitors to the 76ers for Harden’s services.

Houston used to be as soon as believed to be heavily drawn to a reunion with Harden this summer, but ESPN’s Jeremy Woo reported this week that the Rockets reuniting with the ragged guard is “an increasing selection of unsure.”

The Rockets are projected to contain $59.1 million in cap dwelling this offseason, which would possibly maybe well be good enough to herald Harden if they had been mad a few reunion. On the opposite hand, adding the ragged wouldn’t scheme mighty sense as they are a younger team on the upward push and had been rebuilding since Harden within the beginning left in January 2021.

Harden final in Philadelphia on a contemporary deal looks a lot more seemingly because the Sixers contain a map more competitive roster that can support him contend for a championship mighty sooner than Houston will seemingly be in a space to.

The 2022-23 marketing and marketing campaign used to be Harden’s first elephantine season in Philadelphia, and he proved to be a valid asset alongside Joel Embiid. In 58 games, he averaged 21.0 functions, 6.1 rebounds and 10.7 assists while shooting 44.1 percent from the flooring and 38.5 percent from the flooring.

The 76ers completed the season third within the Eastern Convention with a 54-28 document, their handiest quit since finishing first for the duration of the 2020-21 marketing and marketing campaign. On the opposite hand, it changed into clear the franchise peaceable distinguished to scheme some changes after it used to be eradicated by the Boston Celtics within the Eastern Convention semifinals.

Keeping Harden this summer ought to be a precedence for the 76ers, though or no longer it is unclear what form of contract the 2 aspects would be open to in repeat to continue their partnership.