The 2023-24 NBA regular season begins in less than two weeks, and there is still much unresolved between the Philadelphia 76ers and James Harden. Even though he’s participating in practices, Harden still wants to be dealt, and the Sixers and LA Clippers are at least trying to find a way to do it.
So far, there hasn’t been much success. This is looking more and more like a situation that will last till the start of the season. But if it happens, neither the Sixers nor the Clippers will benefit.
You’d have to imagine that it’ll be finished at some point, and once it is, the Sixers have some very big ideas as they try to retool the squad around Joel Embiid.
Following the trade of James Harden, the Philadelphia 76ers had big aspirations.
In the most recent Harden update, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski provided some insight into what Sixers general manager Daryl Morey might be thinking. Woj specifically mentions that the Sixers intend to trade whatever they receive in exchange for Harden for another All-Star type player.
It’s difficult to predict how practical this would be for the Sixers, but you’d have to assume that a lot will depend on what they get in exchange for Harden. Assuming this is the case, it makes sense for the Sixers to be so adamant about their asking price.
According to reports, the 76ers are seeking two first-round picks in exchange for Harden and/or a first-round pick and Terance Mann from the Clippers. So far, LA has been unable to meet the cost. They are, however, allegedly attempting to find a middle ground.
With no substantial trade market for Harden at this moment, it would be in everyone’s best interest to find a middle ground. A lost season is the last thing the Sixers and Harden need.
The major question for the Sixers is what happens after Harden is traded. Right now, that may be the most vexing, unresolved storyline to watch out once the season begins.
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