Could James Harden leave the Philadelphia 76ers for the Houston Rockets this offseason? Time is a flat circle and Harden has a “magnetic pull” to the Houston area.
Despite the 76ers’ victory at Madison Square Garden on Christmas Day, the most important story in Philadelphia basketball is that of James Harden.
A report filed by Adrian Wojnarowski hours before the 76ers’ start against the Knicks suggests Harden would be open to a return to Houston, after asking to be traded a few years ago.
According to Woj, “All-Star guard James Harden is seriously considering a return to the Houston Rockets in free agency next July — if he decides not to sign a new contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources tell ESPN. . »
Why would James Harden leave the 76ers for the Rockets?
James Harden has a good relationship with many of the Houston front office despite his departure, as Daryl Morey has since moved to Philadelphia, where he is now the current GM of the 76ers with Harden in place. With a new regime in place, Harden’s trade demand is a thing of the past.
According to a Houston-area radio host Adam SplaneHarden is also on good terms with several young Rockets stars:
“James Harden has relationships with many young Rockets who have followed him, and he played with many of them at Toyota Center this summer. Kevin Porter Jr, Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr and Josh Christopher were among the players to attend. »
These connections could play a large part in making Houston the primary backup plan for Harden. Houston already has a decent core in place, with Green leading the way as the former No. 2 pick. Green has held a grudge since being selected second to Pistons guard Cade Cunningham, considering himself the top talent in the 2021 draft class.
It was that mindset that endeared him to Houston, and perhaps what will draw Harden next.
Would the 76ers consider trading James Harden?
Trading a player like James Harden seems highly unlikely for the 76ers. Philadelphia remains in playoff contention, fifth in the Eastern Conference with Tyrese Maxey returning next week. Trading Harden is admitting defeat to this group of players.
Harden also makes over $30 million a season and will honor that contract. He also knows Daryl Morey, so there’s unlikely to be any controversy until the offseason, when Harden gets a chance to back out of his two-year contract.
Following : LeBron James was caught making the dumbest Instagram montage ever.
