The Philadelphia 76ers entered the 2023 offseason with plenty of uncertainty regarding their future, more specifically with James Harden. While there has been plenty of speculation that Harden may leave the Sixers for the Houston Rockets, more and more reports have suggested that Harden may not leave after all.

NBA Insider Marc Stein only added more fuel to that fire when he reported on his Substack on June 25 that Harden returning to the Sixers had gained more traction while explaining why.

“The idea that James Harden will re-sign with Philadelphia in free agency rather than return to Houston for a second stint with the Rockets has gained momentum over the past week or two.

“Among the whispered reasons for the change in forecast: Word is Harden came away from his introductory meeting with new Sixers coach Nick Nurse intrigued by Nurse’s vision,” Stein wrote.

Nurse has both an NBA title and an NBA Coach of the Year award to his name. Former Sixers head coach Doc Rivers did too, but the difference is Nurse’s accolades are much more recent. His title came in 2019, while Doc’s came in 2008. Nurse won the Coach of the Year award the year after winning a title, and Rivers won the same award in 2000.

Sixers ‘Determined’ to Bring Back James Harden

On the June 23 episode of Sportscenter, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski gave the full details on the Sixers’ pursuit of Harden.

“They’re determined to keep James Harden, but it’ll be a negotiation,” Wojnarowski said. “It’s probably not going to be just the traditional full max long-term deal that he’s been able to command throughout his career.”

Wojnarowski also mentioned how the addition of Nick Nurse could impact how Harden approaches his next free agency.

“A lot can happen, and I’m sure will happen before June 30, but certainly, there’s a pathway back to a contender with the Sixers, perhaps financially for James Harden that could make a lot of sense, and certainly, a team with Nick Nurse, as their new head coach, you know, certainly provides a backdrop for him to continue with a contender.”

James Harden Re-Signing May Lead to Tobias Harris Trade

Harden re-signing isn’t the only plotline going on this offseason. They may also look at trading Tobias Harris. Matt Moore of Action Network revealed that their futures may be connected to one another while adding who might get him.

“The way for the Sixers to make room to re-sign James Harden to whatever deal he’s amenable to is to trade Harris.

“The Kings have long been thought to be the most likely landing spot for Harris, not only because of the pre-existing relationship between Sixers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey and Kings GM Monte McNair but also with the Kings looking for a small forward alternative to Harrison Barnes.”

Moore proposed a hypothetical deal between the two sides if Harden stays among other dominos.

“IF Harden decides to stay in Philly and IF the Kings don’t manage a trade for OG Anunoby (which again looks unlikely), then the Kings and Sixers could work out a deal for Harris. It’s not known what either side wants to include in such a deal (at least by yours truly).”

The Philadelphia 76ers have two intriguing plotlines going on this offseason – whether they’ll be able to keep James Harden in free agency and what they’ll do with Tobias Harris’ expiring contract. Matt Moore of Action Network revealed that these two subplots could very well be connected.

Moore revealed that what will help the Sixers make room to pay Harden this offseason will depend on them trading Harris while revealing who could be interested.

“The way for the Sixers to make room to re-sign James Harden to whatever deal he’s amenable to is to trade Harris.

“The Kings have long been thought to be the most likely landing spot for Harris, not only because of the pre-existing relationship between Sixers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey and Kings GM Monte McNair but also with the Kings looking for a small forward alternative to Harrison Barnes.”

Moore outlined how a deal would come to fruition.

“IF Harden decides to stay in Philly and IF the Kings don’t manage a trade for OG Anunoby (which again looks unlikely), then the Kings and Sixers could work out a deal for Harris. It’s not known what either side wants to include in such a deal (at least by yours truly).”

The Kings could offer Richaun Holmes and/or Kevin Huerter for Harris, among other pieces, but it remains to be seen if the Kings would be comfortable with that or if that’d be along the lines of what the Sixers would want in return for Harris.

Tobias Harris Named as an Option for Pacers

In his June 20 NBA mock draft, ESPN’s Jonathan Givony floated Harris among the options the Indiana Pacers could potentially look into.

“The Pacers trading for a veteran such as Tobias Harris, De’Andre Hunter, or Dorian Finney-Smith is an option that could be explored as well,” Givony wrote.

Even though his contract is expiring, Harris is owed $39.3 million for the upcoming season, which would make it expensive for anyone to acquire. Because Harris is a proven scorer at the wing position, he could have plenty of suitors.

While the Sixers could get rid of Harris to save enough money to keep Harden, they could also use his deal to get more rotation players who give them better depth.

Tobias Harris’ Other Suitors

Besides the Kings and the Pacers, Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reported who else has called about Harris on June 21.

“The Detroit Pistons, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Indiana Pacers have made inquiries about Harris’ availability, according to a source. However, another source said the Sixers will only make a deal that would be hard to pass up. As a result, teams around the league believe the Sixers are overvaluing Harris and asking for ‘outrageous packages in return,'” Pompey wrote.

Pompey added that the Sixers won’t trade him for the sake of trading him but rather for a deal that makes them better.

“Right now, the Sixers aren’t willing to trade him unless it drastically improves their team. But they’ll have opportunities to trade him if need be.”

Pompey concluded by revealing what the future may hold between Harris and the Sixers.

“Contrary to public belief, the Sixers believe Harris is a solid fit for new coach Nick Nurse, who has had success with versatile forwards. If things don’t work out, the Sixers will have other opportunities to trade Harris before the 2024 trade deadline. If things go well, they could look to re-sign him at a more realistic rate once he becomes a free agent next summer.”

With every passing day comes more details about James Harden‘s free agency and whether the Philadelphia 76ers will be able to retain him. Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reported the latest details on Harden’s free agency on June 19, saying that there’s more optimism that he’ll stick with the team.

“For the Sixers, a return to Philadelphia doesn’t seem as bleak as it did a month ago. There’s varying levels of belief that Harden could re-sign with the Sixers, depending on who you talk to. Sources have said the Sixers are more optimistic that he’ll re-sign.”

Pompey added that the Sixers are not going to commit to the maximum number of years to keep Harden while previewing the length they would be comfortable with.

“The Sixers are not willing to hinder the team’s short- or long-term future by overpaying for Harden. The prevailing thought is a deal in the two-year range would be ideal for the 14-year veteran.”

Despite the optimism, Pompey said that the Houston Rockets are still very much a threat to sign him.

“Sources have said Harden’s interest in returning to Houston is mutual and not a ploy to get a lucrative deal out of the Sixers.”

Pompey did not say it, but it’s also very possible that they, too, are more comfortable giving Harden the same number of years as the Sixers.

Executives Believe James Harden Will Stay

Nothing is official until it’s official, but Zach Lowe revealed on “The Lowe Post” on June 19 that there is a growing belief among executives that Harden will stay with the Sixers.

“The breaks have now been pumped, like slammed on, around the league to the point that I bet if you poll 50 front office executives, the majority of them would guess he’s going back to Philly. I don’t know what the hell is going to happen. We’ll see.”

This has been a massive 180 from what the narrative had been for months. Various reports said that Harden was expected to go to the Rockets. Pompey himself reported as such on May 19 that the belief around the league was that Harden would return to his former team.

James Harden Has ‘Renewed Interest’ in Staying

NBA Insider Marc Stein reported on June 17 that Harden has rediscovered his interest in staying with the Sixers, citing his history with President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey as a factor in his upcoming decision.

“There have been some rumbles this week that, despite the undeniably strong lure that a return to Houston holds for Harden, he is said to be giving renewed consideration to staying put. There is a loyalty factor for Harden to weigh after Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey spent the bulk of his first 15 months in the City of Brotherly Love trying to acquire him, finally succeeding in February 2022,” Stein wrote on his Substack.

From the very beginning, the Rockets’ interest in Harden didn’t make much sense outside of their history with him. The Rockets are rebuilding and have the No. 4 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Signing the 33-year-old Harden – who will be 34 before the 2023-24 season starts – complicates their timeline since their roster is full of young players.

With free agency only weeks away, the Philadelphia 76ers will have a decision to make with James Harden. Not just if they’ll be able to keep him or not, but how much they are willing to pay to keep him. On June 17, NBA Insider Marc Stein reported that not only is Harden now strongly considering going back to Philly, but explained why loyalty plays a part.

“There have been some rumbles this week that, despite the undeniably strong lure that a return to Houston holds for Harden, he is said to be giving renewed consideration to staying put. There is a loyalty factor for Harden to weigh after Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey spent the bulk of his first 15 months in the City of Brotherly Love trying to acquire him, finally succeeding in February 2022,” Stein wrote on his Substack.

Morey hit two birds with one stone when he acquired Harden, having not only gotten the former MVP who he had success with on the Houston Rockets, but also traded malcontent Ben Simmons in the process. Again, what may be the final factor is how much he and the Sixers are willing to pay to keep Harden for how long.

Bill Simmons Calls James Harden’s Return ‘Probable’

Bill Simmons also revealed that it is appearing more and more likely that Harden will return to the Sixers this summer.

On the June 16 episode of “The Bill Simmons Podcast,” Simmons revealed that Harden’s return is the reason why the Sixers are not pursuing Bradley Beal.

“I’ll tell you this. Heard last night from a little birdie – Harden going back to Philly is way more realistic and probable than everyone’s giving it credit for, including myself, up until yesterday when I heard about this. Because everyone was like, ‘Oh, he’s going to Houston.’ There’s been some Philly buzz, and I think that’s one of the reasons why they’re not in the Beal sweepstakes.”

The Sixers could also hypothetically have both of them, but if what Simmons says is true, then Harden’s decision to remain with the team evidently makes them feel that adding Beal wouldn’t be necessary.

Sixers Not Interested in Fred VanVleet, Bradley Beal

On June 15, NBA Insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports revealed that even if Harden leaves, the Sixers are not expected to chase Beal or Fred VanVleet as his replacement.

Fischer wrote that the Sixers wouldn’t be interested in VanVleet despite his connections to Sixers head coach Nick Nurse.

“But Philadelphia, sources said, is not expected to target Fred VanVleet in the event Harden departs via free agency, despite the obvious connection to new Sixers head coach Nick Nurse, who won a championship with VanVleet in Toronto in 2019.”

Fischer added that Sixers aren’t interested in Beal even if Harden returns to the team.

“The Philadelphia 76ers…are also not expected to target Beal, league sources told Yahoo Sports, regardless of whether Harden decides to remain with the franchise.”

These report could also indicate that the Sixers aren’t planning to add a Harden replacement because they won’t have to should Harden re-sign with the team.

James Harden lands with the New Orleans Pelicans while Zion Williamson is paired with reigning MVP Joel Embiid on the Philadelphia 76ers in a proposed trade from ESPN’s Andre Snellings, whose scenario is as follows:

Philadelphia 76ers get: Williamson ($33M this year), Larry Nance Jr. ($10M this year), Garrett Temple ($5M), Trey Murphy III ($3M)

New Orleans Pelicans get: James Harden (currently $33M before opt out; Harden must agree to sign-and-trade), P.J. Tucker ($10.5M), Mac McClung (qualifying offer), two 2024 second-round picks (76ers’ and Knicks’ picks)

If the Sixers were to pull off such a trade, Snellings believes the new supersized Philadelphia frontcourt would have the highest ceiling in the NBA.

“If the 76ers can pair Williamson with Embiid and a strong supporting cast featuring Maxey, Murphy, De’Anthony Melton and Tobias Harris, the 76ers would have the highest ceiling in the NBA,” Snellings wrote.

As for the Big Easy portion of this blockbuster, Snellings believes the deal would open the floor up for Pelicans star Brandon Ingram while also providing additional scoring opportunities for “The Beard.”

“Brandon Ingram is an All-Star, but the fit with Williamson isn’t ideal because both are combo forwards who like to operate with the ball in their hands,” Snellings wrote. “While Ingram would be the foundational young star of the Pels, he doesn’t have the usage requirements of Joel Embiid, which would open up additional scoring opportunities for Harden.”

P.J. Tucker Gives Pelicans Firepower to Compete in West

A more understated aspect of Snellings’ deal is the Pelicans landing 38-year-old forward P.J. Tucker; who the ESPN writer feels would give New Orleans the “firepower and the size to compete with any team in the West,” before putting the defending NBA Champions, the Denver Nuggets, on notice.

“Tucker is a tough-minded, defensive veteran to fit into the Pelicans frontcourt rotation next to Jonas Valanciunas and Herbert Jones,” Snellings prefaced before saying, “That team would have both the firepower and the size to compete with any team in the West, including the Denver Nuggets.”

Tucker has elevated teams like the Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, and Houston Rockets to contender status in recent seasons, so such pronounced faith from Snellings in the forward isn’t misplaced.

James Harden Returning to Sixers ‘Favorite in the Clubhouse’

While Harden departure rumors have been a staple of the 2023 Sixers offseason, CBS Sports’ Colin Ward-Henninger believes that the guard’s return to Philadelphia is a “favorite in the clubhouse.”

“Despite his playoff failures, Harden has been productive as the 76ers’ point guard, leading the NBA in assists last season while putting up 21 points per game on his best 3-point shooting since his last OKC season back in 2012,” Snellings prefaced before saying, “The chatter about Harden heading back to Houston has been loud and consistent, but returning to Philadelphia with new head coach Nick Nurse is probably the favorite in the clubhouse.”

Harden was reportedly a “driving force” behind Doc Rivers’ dismissal as Sixers head coach according to Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer, so the return of “The Beard” is the only thing separating the franchise from a potential avalanche of bad PR if Embiid is offended by Harden having any sway on who the coach is despite not being under contract long-term.

With the Bradley Beal sweepstakes underway, Bill Simmons explained that the Philadelphia 76ers will not be among the participants because it appears that James Harden‘s return to the team is likely.

Simmons revealed the likelihood of Harden returning to the Sixers on the June 16 episode of “The Bill Simmons Podcast.”

“I’ll tell you this. Heard last night from a little birdie – Harden going back to Philly is way more realistic and probable than everyone’s giving it credit for, including myself, up until yesterday when I heard about this. Because everyone was like, ‘Oh, he’s going to Houston.’ There’s been some Philly buzz, and I think that’s one of the reasons why they’re not in the Beal sweepstakes.”

There is a scenario where the Sixers could have Harden and Beal on the same team, as they could use Tobias Harris, Danuel House, and Montrezl Harrell’s expiring contracts to match Beal’s, among other assets to offer. However, having Harden and Beal on the team could prove to be redundant since both play similar positions and have similar skillsets.

Sixers Not Expected to Target Fred VanVleet & Bradley Beal

On June 15, NBA Insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports revealed that the Sixers aren’t expected to target Fred VanVleet or Beal even if Harden leaves this summer.

Fischer revealed that the Sixers won’t go after VanVleet despite his connections to head coach Nick Nurse

“But Philadelphia, sources said, is not expected to target Fred VanVleet in the event Harden departs via free agency, despite the obvious connection to new Sixers head coach Nick Nurse, who won a championship with VanVleet in Toronto in 2019.”

Fischer added that they won’t go after Beal either, regardless of Harden’s decision.

“The Philadelphia 76ers…are also not expected to target Beal, league sources told Yahoo Sports, regardless of whether Harden decides to remain with the franchise.”

The fact there have been multiple reports revealing that the Sixers have no interest in Beal – on top of Fischer’s report that they don’t plan to chase VanVleet – could also signify how confident they are that Harden will return to the team this offseason.

Why the Sixers Aren’t Interested in Bradley Beal

Following Shams Charania’s report on June 14 that Beal and the Washington Wizards plan to work together to find Beal a new team, John Clark of NBC Sports Philadelphia reported not only that the Sixers won’t be among Beal’s suitors but explained why the Sixers won’t be interested in him.

“It’s my understanding the Sixers probably will not be a suitor for Bradley Beal. He has a big contract for a lot of money & with the new CBA with aprons that does not allow for much flexibility for roster building. And Sixers believe Tyrese Maxey can be an All-Star caliber player,” Clark wrote via his personal Twitter on June 14.

Beal will be paid 46.7 million this coming season, and that will only go higher season by season leading up to the 2026-27 season, where he will be paid upwards of $57 million if he exercises his player option. As Reynolds said, the Sixers likely won’t want to pay that because of the league’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Despite the possibility that James Harden may leave the Philadelphia 76ers, and despite that Fred VanVleet has a rapport with Sixers head coach Nick Nurse during their time with the Toronto Raptors, it appears that the Sixers aren’t interested in reuniting Nurse with VanVleet even if Harden walks.

NBA Insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports revealed that Sixers won’t go after VanVleet even if Harden winds up leaving.

“But Philadelphia, sources said, is not expected to target Fred VanVleet in the event Harden departs via free agency, despite the obvious connection to new Sixers head coach Nick Nurse, who won a championship with VanVleet in Toronto in 2019.”

VanVleet’s not the only star player who the Sixers don’t plan to go after, even if Harden leaves. Fischer added that the Sixers are not interested in Washington Wizards star Bradley Beal.

“The Philadelphia 76ers…are also not expected to target Beal, league sources told Yahoo Sports, regardless of whether Harden decides to remain with the franchise.”

Despite the potential loss of Harden, which may not happen regardless, it appears the Sixers will not rush to add anyone to fill the void left by him.

Insider Reveals Why Sixers Aren’t Interested in Bradley Beal

Fischer was not the only one who refuted the Sixers’ possible interest in acquiring Beal. John Clark of NBC Sports Philadelphia said the same thing, adding that the Sixers’ faith in Tyrese Maxey, as well as Beal’s floated contract being a burden on their salary cap, are why they don’t want to acquire Beal.

“It’s my understanding the Sixers probably will not be a suitor for Bradley Beal. He has a big contract for a lot of money & with the new CBA with aprons that does not allow for much flexibility for roster building. And Sixers believe Tyrese Maxey can be an All-Star caliber player,” Clark said via his personal Twitter on June 15.

Beal will be paid $46.7 million this upcoming season, and that will spike up potentially to $57.1 million by the 2026-27 season should Beal opt into the last year of his deal. That’s a lot of money shelled out to someone who has made three All-Star teams and one All-NBA team in his career.

76ers ‘Not Desperate’ to Re-Sign James Harden

Losing Harden could be problematic for the Sixers, as they can’t simply replace him with another star via free agency. Despite that, it appears they aren’t too desperate to keep the 2018 NBA MVP, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.

Windhorst said on NBA Today that the Sixers want Harden back, but because of the other options they have, they aren’t hellbent on keeping Harden at all costs.

“The Sixers are not desperate,” Windhorst said. “While they absolutely want James Harden back, and I think there’s a way they can play together and still be highly successful, the Sixers have other moves they can make. If Harden walks, they have cap space. They have tradeable contracts. They have things they can do. Harden is important but not the end-all and be-all for the 76ers.”

This may speak volumes for how far Harden’s value may have fallen as a free agent, but only free agency will determine what kind of contract he gets on the open market.

The Philadelphia 76ers continue to get encouraging news regarding James Harden’s free agency. ESPN’s Jeremy Woo revealed that the Houston Rockets‘ draft decision may depend on what happens with Harden while also revealing that going to his former team is far from a foregone conclusion.

“One potential factor in the decision is James Harden’s potential return to the Rockets — a situation that rival teams have come to view as increasingly uncertain in recent weeks,” Woo wrote.

The increasing uncertainty surrounding Harden going back to the Rockets could play well for the Sixers. Not just because they could re-sign him, but they may not have to pay top dollar for him if their competitors aren’t completely sold on bringing him in on a max contract.

Harden will turn 34 before the 2023-24 season begins and is coming off yet another disappointing playoff run, which may or may not have affected how interested parties see his worth on the open market.

Doc Rivers Says Coaching James Harden Was ‘Challenging’

Former Sixers head coach Doc Rivers talked about his time with the team on the June 13 episode of “The Bill Simmons Podcast,” which included what it was like to coach Harden.

Rivers delved into how hard it was to coach Harden, believing that the two of them had different approaches to basketball.

“It was challenging. More because we were fighting two things, and not like visually fighting. James was so good at playing one way, and the way I believe you have to play to win, in some ways, is different because it’s a lot of giving up the ball, moving the ball, and coming back to the ball,” Rivers told Simmons.

Rivers added that the Sixers played at their best when Harden balanced himself well as a scorer and playmaker, then started to decline when that balance changed.

“At times, to get him to move and play the way I needed him to play [was challenging]. I thought the first half of the year, we were the best team in the game. I thought James was playing perfect basketball. He was a point guard of the team. He was still scoring, but he was doing more playmaking and scoring. And then the second half, he started scoring more, and I thought we got more stagnant at times.”

Chris Paul-James Harden Trade Has ‘Circulated’

Even though the teams linked most to Harden this offseason have been the Sixers and the Rockets, NBA Insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reported that a potential trade involving Harden and his former teammate, Chris Paul of the Phoenix Suns, has been brought up.

“There’s the idea of Phoenix exchanging Paul for James Harden, which has quietly circulated around some league personnel since the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago,” Fischer wrote on June 9. “A reunion between Harden and Durant makes for great fodder, and the bearded point guard could feasibly pick up his 2023-24 player option on the condition Philadelphia trades him to the Suns.”

Fischer added that Paul himself did something like that before, but doing so may not be the best financial choice for Harden.

“You may remember Paul pulled that exact maneuver to join Harden in Houston in 2017. Harden, though, stands to gain quite a bit more financially from either staying pat with the 76ers or returning to the Rockets and their $60-plus million in-waiting cap space.”

Because of all the uncertainty surrounding his free agency, the notion of James Harden‘s replacement has been floated around since the Philadelphia 76ers‘ season ended. Among the options the Sixers could look into, The Athletic’s Danny Leroux named former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook as a possible option.

Leroux listed the Sixers as one of the “high-end teams looking for guard depth” that could be interested in Westbrook. Although he listed the Sixers as an option only if Harden parts ways with them this summer. Leroux added what could potentially sway Westbrook as a free agent this offseason.

“There does not appear to be another franchise likely to offer a starting spot (or starter money), but there could be young rosters and possibly playoff-caliber teams offering a third-guard role.”

Should Harden leave the Sixers, that could potentially open up a starting spot that Westbrook could fill. Westbrook is not the shooter that Harden is, but he would help replace much of the playmaking that Harden brings. Westbrook averaged 7.5 assists a game during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers during the 2022-23 season.

Again, this would all only be considered if Harden leaves, which is not a foregone conclusion, but as far as replacements go, the Sixers could do worse than Westbrook.

Chris Paul-James Harden Trade Has ‘Circulated’

On June 9, NBA Insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reported that the idea of the Sixers exchanging Harden to the Phoenix Suns for Chris Paul has been brought up.

“There’s the idea of Phoenix exchanging Paul for James Harden, which has quietly circulated around some league personnel since the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago,” Fischer wrote. “A reunion between Harden and Durant makes for great fodder, and the bearded point guard could feasibly pick up his 2023-24 player option on the condition Philadelphia trades him to the Suns.”

Such a deal would only be completed if Harden agrees to opt in to his contract, which could potentially cost him more money if he chooses that route. If the Sixers agree to that trade. Fischer referenced a similar trade happening with Paul when he was acquired by the Houston Rockets.

“You may remember Paul pulled that exact maneuver to join Harden in Houston in 2017. Harden, though, stands to gain quite a bit more financially from either staying pat with the 76ers or returning to the Rockets and their $60-plus million in-waiting cap space.”

NBA Exec Says James Harden is Not a Max Player

An NBA executive told Heavy Sports’ Steve Bulpett that while he believes Harden is using the Rockets for leverage, he added that Harden won’t get the contract he wants because he’s no longer that kind of player.

“There’s this talk about him going back to Houston, but from what I understand it’s nothing more than a negotiating ploy. He knows that these guys aren’t going to max him. He’s no longer a max player, but he’s hoping that Philly wants him back and is willing to pay him.

Another executive agreed with that sentiment while talking with Bulpett, though the exec added that Harden is still a quality player.

“Look, in the right situation, I think he could be an important part of a team. He could contribute to a good team,” said an Eastern Conference exec told Heavy. “But is he ready to take that role and be paid what that role is worth? From our conversations, what James is looking for is someone to pay him at a rate that he thinks that he’s worth, which he’s not.”

After the Philadelphia 76ers were eliminated by the Boston Celtics on May 14, it only took the Sixers two days to fire head coach Doc Rivers. On the June 13 episode of “The Bill Simmons Podcast,” Rivers talked about his time with the Sixers, including the difficulty of coaching James Harden.

“It was challenging. More because we were fighting two things, and not like visually fighting. James was so good at playing one way, and the way I believe you have to play to win, in some ways, is different because it’s a lot of giving up the ball, moving the ball, and coming back to the ball,” Rivers told Simmons.

Rivers then detailed the challenge of coaching Harden, adding that things changed for the worse as the season went on because of him.

“At times, to get him to move and play the way I needed him to play [was challenging]. I thought the first half of the year we were the best team in the game. I thought James was playing perfect basketball. He was a point guard of the team. He was still scoring, but he was doing more playmaking and scoring. And then the second half, he started scoring more, and I thought we got more stagnant at times.”

James Harden Was ‘Driving Force’ Behind Doc Rivers’ Firing

Two days after Rivers was fired, Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reported that it was, in fact, Harden who pushed the Sixers to fire Rivers as head coach.

“Several members of Rivers’ staff, sources said, have pointed to All-Star point guard James Harden — whom league personnel are expecting to decline his player option in search of a long-term contract — as a driving force behind Rivers’ departure,” Fischer wrote in a story published May 18.

Since then, the Sixers have hired Nick Nurse as Rivers’ replacement. Firing Rivers was a drastic change on the Sixers’ part, but it could very well be what inspires Harden to stay with the Sixers. Even though Harden did not have the best overall playoff performance, the Sixers don’t have a lot of options outside of keeping him.

Insider Said James Harden Had Bad Rapport With Doc Rivers

On the May 16 episode of “The Anthony Gargano Show,” NBA Insider Ramona Shelburne talked about how things were going between Harden and Rivers behind the scenes. From what Shelburne made it sound like, the two were not on good terms.

“The Harden-Doc Rivers thing was never great,” Shelburne said. “There was a lot behind it. There was this team meeting I had heard about where Doc tried to say something about (Harden) going out on the road and how does that look and how does that look to your teammates. If you’re going to do that, you’ve really got to show up in the game. There was a lot of trying to hold James accountable in certain ways.”

Add that coaching Harden was a challenge for Rivers may have been a direct result of the issues the two had with one another behind the scenes. Since Rivers no longer calls the shots in Philadelphia, he no longer has to worry about potentially worsening the team’s chemistry by calling out Harden the way he did.

James Harden won’t be leaving the Philadelphia 76ers to join up with controversial Dallas Mavericks free agent-to-be Kyrie Irving to sign together on the up-and-coming Houston Rockets per the New York Post’s Christian Arnold — this after having previously teamed up on the Brooklyn Nets before “The Beard” begged for a move out of the Big Apple due to the polarizing guard’s behavior.

“While the Rockets have plenty of salary cap space, it would also be hard to imagine Houston convincing both Harden and Irving in joining up to play with one another again after the way things ended in Brooklyn,” Arnold wrote.

With Irving receiving interest from the Mavericks — with the Los Angeles Lakers looming as a possibility due to Irving’s desire to team up with LeBron James again –, the Rockets are likely out as a potential landing spot for “Uncle Drew.” Arnold feels that Harden could end up back in Houston after more than two years away, though.

“While a reunion between Harden and the Rockets became a little less certain with the report that he was torn on what to do, the odds still seem good that he’ll end up back with the Rockets — though the Suns have been floated as a potentially interested party,” Arnold wrote.

Kyrie Irving Doesn’t Have Sentimental Appeal to Rockets

The Rockets wouldn’t consider Irving as they would Harden because of the lack of sentimental appeal the former lacks and the latter has according to CBS Sports’ Sam Quinn. In addition, Quinn sees an awkward fit with Irving and Houston’s core.

“Irving doesn’t have the same sentimental appeal to Houston that Harden does,” Quinn prefaced before saying, “He’s never played for the Rockets, and he’s never meaningfully competed for a regular-season MVP award. On paper, the fit is odd. Houston already has two high-usage guards in Jalen Green and Kevin Porter Jr. Irving is better than both, but it’s surprising to see the Rockets potentially discard younger, less controversial players in favor of Irving, whom they don’t know as well organizationally as they do Harden.”

The Rockets amassed a 397-224 record and reached two Western Conference Finals, in 2015 and 2018, with “The Beard” in uniform. Irving, meanwhile, has only been a part of a team with a playoff win one season (2020-21) since joining the Nets in 2019 free agency.

Mavericks & Sixers Could Re-Sign Stars This Offseason

Quinn sees Irving returning to the Mavericks as a certainty, though the rumors of a Rockets move could be a leverage play from the point guard’s camp to get as much money as possible.

“The reported expectation around the league all offseason has been that Irving remains with the Mavericks on a hefty long-term deal, but these rumors certainly won’t hurt his ability to drum up some leverage with Dallas,” Quinn wrote.

As for Harden, Quinn doesn’t see the Rockets relying on a Harden signing to change their fortunes and instead pivoting to whoever they can get to immediately improve — which could leave the door open for a return to the Sixers.

“What has become clear as player-movement season approaches is that the Rockets are not only targeting Harden this offseason,” Quinn prefaced before saying, “They plan to make a serious step toward the playoffs, with or without their former point guard.”

In the wake of the potential loss of James Harden this offseason, the Philadelphia 76ers could be on the lookout for his replacement. One such name that’s been floated is Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers. Should Harden leave, Ky Carlin of Sixers Wire proposed a trade that would replace Harden with Lillard.

Sixers get: Damian Lillard

Trail Blazers get: Tyrese Maxey, Tobias Harris, De’Anthony Melton, and pick swaps in 2024, 2026, and 2028

Carlin first explained that trading away Maxey would be a hard pill to swallow for the Sixers.

“Moving Maxey would be hard for this franchise to do. He is only going to get better and this is after he averaged 20.3 points and 3.5 assists while shooting 43.4% from deep. He was fantastic all season long, and he is going to make multiple All-Star games.”

He added that Lillard would fit well next to Joel Embiid like Harden, though a deal like this would all depend on if Harden truly is leaving.

“However, Lillard gives them their best chance to win right now. His ability to take a game over in the blink of an eye and just throw a team on his back as well as his killer instinct comes in handy for a team contending for a championship. He and Joel Embiid would be able to co-exist just as James Harden was able to do so.

“Of course, this trade is all about Harden leaving. If he does, Lillard should be somebody to keep an eye on for Philadelphia, even though he listed the Miami Heat and the Brooklyn Nets as his preferred destinations.”

Insider Says Damian Lillard-Sixers Trade is Not Likely

NBA Insider Chris Haynes named teams who could potentially go after Lillard this offseason. While he named the Sixers as a possibility, he did not think a trade would be likely.

“Nets, Miami, and possibly, I don’t know, Philly, but they don’t have what it takes, so I’ll leave it at Nets and Miami.” Haynes said on “The Dan Patrick Show” on June 8.

Lillard has yet to make a trade request, but the Trail Blazers are running low on options on how they’ll be able to build a contending team around Lillard. Lillard has voiced his desire to stay loyal to the team, but that could change.

James Harden is Unsure About Free Agency Decision

Despite the rumors tying Harden to the Houston Rockets, NBA Insider Shams Charania revealed on the June 6 episode of “The Ryan Russillo Podcast” that Harden does not know who his next team will be.

“I don’t think he knows. As far as what I know about his mindset, I don’t think he totally is there,” Charania said. “We’re less than a month out from free agency starting. I really think he’s torn with the prospect of staying in Philadelphia or moving on to Houston potentially and returning back to his home.”

Charania then listed all the factors on Philly’s end that could determine his decision.

“I think whichever way it goes, it’s going to be relatively close. That’s why as we get closer to July 1, June 30th, those conversations that he’s going to have, as he becomes a free agent, with Nick Nurse and with Daryl Morey, what their vision is for him, what their vision is for that team, what that offer ultimately is going to be versus comparing it to whatever Houston comes with on June 30th or July 1, those are all very important factors.”

The Phoenix Suns trading Chris Paul for James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason “has quietly circulated” in league circles, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports.

“And then there’s the idea of Phoenix exchanging Paul for James Harden, which has quietly circulated around some league personnel since the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago,” Fischer wrote in a story published June 9. “A reunion between Harden and Kevin Durant makes for great fodder, and the bearded point guard could feasibly pick up his 2023-24 player option on the condition Philadelphia trades him to the Suns.

“You may remember Paul pulled that exact maneuver to join Harden in Houston in 2017,” Fischer wrote. “Harden, though, stands to gain quite a bit more financially from either staying pat with the 76ers or returning to the Rockets and their $60-plus million in waiting cap space.”

Harden, the 2017-18 MVP and a 10-time All-Star, can become an unrestricted free agent this offseason if he declines his 2023-24 player option with the Sixers. Meanwhile, the Suns have met with Paul and his representatives and addressed the likelihood that the front office could waive, stretch or trade the future Hall of Famer, according to multiple reports.

James Harden Could Be Interested in Joining the Suns

According to Brian Geltzeiler of Sirius XM Radio, Harden could be interested in joining the Suns, who have Devin Booker and Kevin Durant.

Harden has played with Durant on the Oklahoma City Thunder and Brooklyn Nets.

The Suns, who lost in six games to the Denver Nuggets in the 2023 Western Conference semifinals, have the second best odds (+300) to land Harden this offseason, per Sportsbetting.ag.

Adams Wells of Bleacher Report wrote that Harden in Phoenix next to Booker and Durant could work.

“If there is an argument for the Suns once again eschewing depth to go after a player like Harden, it’s what we saw when he played with Durant and Kyrie Irving for the Brooklyn Nets,” Wells wrote on May 17. “It wasn’t a large sample size for that trio, but the Nets’ offense was unstoppable when they were on the court together. Devin Booker, at this stage of his career, is basically Kyrie Irving on the court without all of the extra baggage. It’s probably a long shot they would even get in the mix for Harden, but there are viable reasons it could happen if that’s the direction Ishbia and president of basketball operations James Jones want to go in.”

Harden has career averages of 24.7 points, 5.6 rebounds and 7.0 assists with the Thunder, Houston Rockets, Nets and Sixers. The lefty played his college basketball at Arizona State, so he’s familiar with the Phoenix area.

Chris Paul Wants to Stay With the Suns

Paul would like to stay with the Suns, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.

Only $15.8 million of his $30.8 million salary for the 2023-24 season is guaranteed if he’s waived.

“Paul continues to want to return to the Suns and partner with his close friend Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, sources said,” Woj wrote. “Nevertheless, Paul and his representatives want the organization to make a quicker decision on his future so that he can proceed out into free agency if indeed the Suns ultimately waive him, sources said.”

Paul, 38, averaged a career-low 13.9 points this season.

The Philadelphia 76ers are making more additions to their coaching staff, as NBA Insider Shams Charania reported that former NBA veteran Bobby Jackson is joining Nick Nurse’s coaching staff as an assistant.

https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1667949157565231113

NBA Insider Marc Stein not only reported the same thing on his Substack but added who might be coming with him.

“Hearing that Sacramento mainstay Bobby Jackson, most recently head coach of the Kings’ G League affiliate in Stockton, Calif., is headed to Philadelphia to join Nick Nurse’s new 76ers staff and that Raptors developmental coach Rico Hines is a candidate to join him,” Stein wrote.

Jackson played in the NBA from 1997 to 2009, where he won the league’s Sixth Man of the Year award with the Sacramento Kings in 2003. Jackson had been the head coach of the Kings’ G-League affiliate, the Stockton Kings, since 2021.

The Sixers lost one of their assistants, Sam Cassell, to the Boston Celtics on June 5, though Cassell’s departure may have been inevitable, seeing how he came to the team at the exact same time former head coach Doc Rivers did and left shortly after Rivers was fired.

James Harden-Chris Paul Trade Has ‘Circulated’

Though James Harden’s most speculated destinations this offseason have been the Sixers and Houston Rockets, Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reported that another option could be on the table.

Fischer said that the idea of the Sixers potentially trading Harden to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for former teammate Chris Paul has made the rounds.

“There’s the idea of Phoenix exchanging Paul for James Harden, which has quietly circulated around some league personnel since the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago,” Fischer wrote. “A reunion between Harden and Durant makes for great fodder, and the bearded point guard could feasibly pick up his 2023-24 player option on the condition Philadelphia trades him to the Suns.”

Fischer added that Paul has been involved in a trade like that back when he and Harden became teammates on the Rockets, but he added that this route may not be the most financially prosperous for Harden.

“You may remember Paul pulled that exact maneuver to join Harden in Houston in 2017. Harden, though, stands to gain quite a bit more financially from either staying pat with the 76ers or returning to the Rockets and their $60-plus million in-waiting cap space.”

Insider Says Damian Lillard Trade is Unlikely

The Sixers have to weigh some of their options this summer, especially if Harden chooses to leave. If Harden opts to skip town, the Sixers could look into trading for Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard, but NBA Insider Chris Haynes says they wouldn’t have the assets to get Lillard.

“Nets, Miami, and possibly, I don’t know, Philly, but they don’t have what it takes, so I’ll leave it at Nets and Miami.” Haynes said on “The Dan Patrick Show” on June 8.

The Sixers lost a lot of their assets when they both traded for Harden and traded away Al Horford. A trade discussion would likely start by offering Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris, and that may not be enough to entice the Trail Blazers to agree to a trade.

With the offseason coming up, the Philadelphia 76ers have to consider their options, specifically with James Harden. While it’s possible Harden could stay or leave via free agency, Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reported that another option could be on the table.

Fischer revealed that Harden could potentially be traded to the Phoenix Suns for former teammate Chris Paul to reunite with another former teammate, Kevin Durant.

“There’s the idea of Phoenix exchanging Paul for James Harden, which has quietly circulated around some league personnel since the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago,” Fischer wrote. “A reunion between Harden and Durant makes for great fodder, and the bearded point guard could feasibly pick up his 2023-24 player option on the condition Philadelphia trades him to the Suns.”

Fischer said that such a deal has been done before with Paul, referencing when Paul became teammates with Harden on the Houston Rockets in 2017, though he added that such a move may not be beneficial for Harden.

“You may remember Paul pulled that exact maneuver to join Harden in Houston in 2017. Harden, though, stands to gain quite a bit more financially from either staying pat with the 76ers or returning to the Rockets and their $60-plus million in-waiting cap space.”

Exec Says James Harden is ‘No Longer a Max Player’

An NBA executive told Heavy Sports Steve Bulpett believes that not only is Harden using the Rockets as leverage, but he believes Harden is doing so to try to get as much money as possible because he believes Harden is not a max player anymore.

“There’s this talk about him going back to Houston, but from what I understand, it’s nothing more than a negotiating ploy. He knows that these guys aren’t going to max him. He’s no longer a max player, but he’s hoping that Philly wants him back and is willing to pay him.

“Houston’s making changes, so what connections will James have with the new people — and why would Houston, that has a bunch of youngsters that they’re trying to grow into NBA players, why would they bring in someone with James’ history of partying?”

An Eastern Conference executive agreed with that sentiment while also questioning if Harden could embrace a lesser role.

“Is he ready to take that role and be paid what that role is worth? From our conversations, what James is looking for is someone to pay him at a rate that he thinks that he’s worth, which he’s not.

“So James is in that unfortunate circumstance that we talk about all the time. Who’s the last person to know it’s over? The player. His status as a max, alpha player in this league, it’s over. He can’t produce wins,” the exec said.

NBA Insider Says Harden-Suns are ‘Discussions in the Wind’

Before Fischer’s report about the possible Harden-for-Paul swap, NBA Insider Ramona Shelburne revealed on “Mason and Ireland” on June 7 that the Suns have discussed getting Harden.

“They don’t (waive Paul) unless they feel pretty good about somebody else, and I want you to keep your eye on James Harden,” Shelburne said. “I don’t want to report anything, but that was in the wind the past month or so. Everybody thinks it’s Philly or Houston, but there have been discussions in the wind.”

The Philadelphia 76ers are expected to have some competition for James Harden this offseason. However, according to John Gombadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 Radio FM, the Phoenix Suns will not be among the teams vying for him.

Gombadoro shot down the notion that Harden will reunite with former teammate Kevin Durant on the Suns this summer on his personal Twitter.

“Can we stop with these ridiculous James Harden reports. There is a zero percent chance this would happen. ZERO,” Gomabadoro tweeted.

This is likely in response to NBA Insider Ramona Shelburne floating Harden as a possible option for the Suns on a June 7 appearance on Mason & Ireland in light of rumors of the Suns potentially parting ways with Chris Paul.

“They don’t (waive Paul) unless they feel pretty good about somebody else, and I want you to keep your eye on James Harden,” Shelburne said. “I don’t want to report anything, but that was in the wind the past month or so. Everybody thinks it’s Philly or Houston, but there have been discussions in the wind.”

Though it appears the Sixers have one less team to worry about in the Harden sweepstakes, it’s far from guaranteed that he will return.

Exec Says James Harden is ‘No Longer a Max Player’

While talking with Heavy Sports’ Steve Bulpett, a source openly questioned why the Houston Rockets would go after Harden, adding that Harden is not the player he once was.

“There’s this talk about him going back to Houston, but from what I understand, it’s nothing more than a negotiating ploy. He knows that these guys aren’t going to max him. He’s no longer a max player, but he’s hoping that Philly wants him back and is willing to pay him.

“Houston’s making changes, so what connections will James have with the new people — and why would Houston, that has a bunch of youngsters that they’re trying to grow into NBA players, why would they bring in someone with James’ history of partying?”

An Eastern Conference executive spoke a similar sentiment while talking with Bulpett, though he added that Harden is still a quality player.

“He can get numbers; he can help a team,” the exec said. “But he’s not a max player anymore. You can’t justify it. The unfortunate part is that more and more of us are going to metrics, and there’s nobody’s metric measurement that looks at him and his efficiency and what he gives up defensively and says, ‘Oh, yeah, this is a guy we should max out.’”

James Harden ‘Torn’ on Who to Play for Next Season

Shams Charania revealed on the June 6 episode of “The Ryan Russillo Podcast” that Harden is currently torn on his free-agent decision this summer, as he does not know who to pick between the Sixers and Rockets.

“I don’t think he knows. As far as what I know about his mindset, I don’t think he totally is there,” Charania said. “We’re less than a month out from free agency starting. I really think he’s torn with the prospect of staying in Philadelphia or moving on to Houston potentially and returning back to his home.”

In an effort to lure James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency, Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus concocted a mock trade involving three teams that would send a pair of All-NBA defenders, Draymond Green and OG Anunoby, as well as 17-point-per-game scorer Gary Trent Jr., to the Houston Rockets.

“The timing and order of operations would need to be precise, but in July, the Rockets could sign Harden to the max, acquire Green on an extend-and-trade from Golden State and land both Anunoby and Trent from the Raptors,” Pincus prefaced before saying, “The bounty from Houston would be divided between the Warriors and Toronto.”

Pincus broke down what pieces would go to the Golden State Warriors (for Green) and the Toronto Raptors (for Anunoby and Trent) in exchange for the three starting caliber players.

“Perhaps it’s No. 4 and one of the Rockets’ top three prospects (Jalen Green, Jabari Smith or Alperen Sengun) to Toronto, with (Kenyon) Martin and (Kevin) Porter to the Warriors. Golden State gets a well-regarded young role player in Martin at $1.9 million for 2023-24, a $9.8 million trade exception and an incredible $153.5 million tax savings with Green gone and Porter stretched.”

Rockets Can Target Karl-Anthony Towns to Pair With James Harden

The other situation Pincus floated for the Rockets to lure Harden from the Sixers is a three-team arrangement that’d land Karl-Anthony Towns in the Space City — a situation that’d require a third team to give the Minnesota Timberwolves proper value for the big man if Scoot Henderson isn’t available at Houston’s No. 4 slot in the 2023 NBA draft.

“If Scoot Henderson isn’t there at No. 4 (he’s projected at No. 3 by B/R’s Jonathan Wasserman), then the Timberwolves may need Houston to rope in another franchise if it’s giving up Towns,” Pincus wrote.

Pincus floated the Atlanta Hawks as a potential third trade partner in this scenario due to their looming cap crunch involving Dejounte Murray’s financial future. Murray, according to Pincus, could be a replacement for Mike Conley in Minnesota’s backcourt.

“The Hawks are facing a more immediate problem under the new CBA, with a payroll projected to be $172 million and $16.4 million in luxury taxes (more if players hit various incentives),” Pincus wrote. “The team is believed to be looking for a home for John Collins, but some whispers abound that Dejounte Murray could be had in the right deal.”

‘Zero’ Percent Chance James Harden Leaves Sixers for Suns, Says Phoenix Radio Host

While the Harden-Rockets reunion possibility remains on the table, the chance that “The Beard” becomes a teammate of Kevin Durant for the third time in their careers on the Phoenix Suns has a “zero” percent chance of happening according to Arizona Sports 98.7 FM Phoenix’s John Gambadoro.

“Can we stop with these ridiculous James Harden reports,” Gambadoro prefaced before saying, “There is a zero percent chance this would happen. ZERO.”

The Sixers would’ve needed to accept a sign-and-trade offer from the Suns that would send Chris Paul back to Philadelphia. Whether or not Daryl Morey wants to do so in order to not send Harden back to their shared former franchise is unclear at this point.

Though it’s very possible that James Harden will stick around, the Philadelphia 76ers have to consider what plan B will be should he leave. Following the report from The Athletic’s Shams Charania that the Phoenix Suns are exploring their options with Chris Paul, Kyle Neubeck of Philly Voice delved into the possibility of Paul replacing Harden.

“The first place your mind goes is whether the Sixers would benefit from bringing in Paul themselves, though that only appears to make sense in a world where James Harden is leaving,” Neubeck said.

Neubeck added that there are cons to adding Paul, which can be attributed to his age.

“Paul is far from the Hall of Fame, All-Star guard he once was, bothered by injuries late in seasons and unable to dial it up as often and as effectively as he could in the recent past. A master of the midrange, Paul’s efficiency on two-point shots took a nose dive last season, a worrying sign for a small guard who will turn 39 in the middle of next year’s second round.”

Neubeck then explained why he could be a beneficial addition to the Sixers despite his advanced age as a player.

“Paul has a ton of on-court and off-court wisdom to pass onto any guard who would listen, and he remains one of the league’s steadiest playmakers in spite of what he has lost. Paul has made a career out of picking his spots as a scorer while spoonfeeding easy looks to teammates, and the Sixers would be able to tap into his playmaking without needing to worry about absorbing much playmaking risk.”

Harden and Paul played together on the Houston Rockets from 2017 to 2019.

Suns Floated as James Harden Suitor

Following a report from Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report that the Suns intended to waive Paul, NBA Insider Ramona Shelburne mentioned Harden as an option for the Suns on a June 7 appearance on “Mason & Ireland” on ESPN Los Angeles.

Shelburne prefaced the Suns’ interest by stating that they wouldn’t get rid of Paul unless they knew someone else was coming, leading to her mentioning Harden.

“They don’t (waive Paul) unless they feel pretty good about somebody else, and I want you to keep your eye on James Harden,” Shelburne said. “I don’t want to report anything, but that was in the wind the past month or so. Everybody thinks it’s Philly or Houston, but there have been discussions in the wind.”

Harden and Kevin Durant have played together on two separate teams – the Oklahoma City Thunder and Brooklyn Nets.

James Harden Not Sure About Free Agency Decision

Charania revealed on the June 6 episode of “The Ryan Russillo Podcast” that Harden is not sure who to choose between the Sixers and Rockets.

“I don’t think he knows. As far as what I know about his mindset, I don’t think he totally is there,” Charania said. “We’re less than a month out from free agency starting. I really think he’s torn with the prospect of staying in Philadelphia or moving on to Houston potentially and returning back to his home.”

Charania added that how the Sixers approach their talks with Harden this summer will factor into his decision.

“I think whichever way it goes, it’s going to be relatively close. That’s why as we get closer to July 1, June 30th, those conversations that he’s going to have, as he becomes a free agent, with Nick Nurse and with Daryl Morey, what their vision is for him, what their vision is for that team, what that offer ultimately is going to be versus comparing it to whatever Houston comes with on June 30th or July 1, those are all very important factors.”

With the NBA free agency period drawing nearer, decision time is coming for players who have an option in their contract for next season. They will have to elect to either opt in for the final year of their deals or opt out and test free agency. As the season comes to a close, all eyes are on former NBA Most Valuable Player James Harden, who has until June 29 to decide on his future with the Philadelphia 76ers.

After being eliminated by the Boston Celtics in the second round, some are speculative about what Harden’s next move will be as he is still looking to win the first NBA title of his career. According to ESPN NBA insider Ramona Shelburne, Harden could be eying a move to the Phoenix Suns, which would reunite him with his former Brooklyn Nets and Oklahoma City Thunder teammate, Kevin Durant.

“I’m simultaneously texting like four people as you just read that to me because it’s really shocking. They don’t do that unless they feel really good about somebody else,” Shelburne said on ESPN Radio’s “Mason and Ireland” show.

“I want you to keep your eye on James Harden. I don’t want to report anything but that was in the wind in the last month or so. Everybody thinks it’s like Philly or Houston, but I don’t know. There has been discussion in the wind.”

Devin Booker Could Help Lure James Harden to Suns

Since entering the league out of the University of Kentucky, Suns guard Devin Booker has gradually improved his game and thus has been crowned one of the best shooting guards in the NBA. But during this 2023 playoff run, Booker officially elevated into the tier of superstardom. He averaged a career-high in nearly every statistical category, including 33.7 points per game and a scalding 50.8% from beyond the arc.

The Suns have recently convinced some high-level talents to come to Phoenix. They have already enticed Chris Paul and Kevin Durant to join them in the last three seasons. Shelburne says that Booker has been one of the factors in that.

“This is the thing about Phoenix — everybody wants to play with Devin Booker. He is like the perfect guy to play with,” Shelburne added.

“He doesn’t suck up all of the oxygen in the room, he’s really good, he’s a great shooter, and he knows how to be a great teammate. He’s already proven — Kevin Durant wanted to be on his team, and Chris Paul wanted to be on his team.”

Is James Harden a Good Fit for Suns?

Booker and Durant proved to be one of the NBA’s top duos during their first postseason run together. And the Suns faired pretty well, considering they had to gut their roster unexpectedly to acquire Durant at the deadline. But now, with new owner Mat Ishbia approaching his first offseason, the franchise will have adequate time to build a roster around their two stars and hopefully be able to compete for a championship. Adding Harden to this roster would be a great way for the Suns’ front office to make a statement in the free agency period.

Of course, Harden is entering the latter years of his career and is no longer playing at the MVP level that fans have grown accustomed to. But the fact is that the Suns don’t need him to be that player. With Booker and Durant leading the offense, Harden won’t have to be a first or second option on offense and can focus on making plays for his teammates.

The Suns showed during the playoffs that they have one of the top duos in the NBA, who could one day be ready to compete for a championship. If the Suns can add Harden to their roster this offseason, that day could be coming a lot sooner than expected.

The two teams most commonly associated with James Harden this offseason have been the Philadelphia 76ers and Houston Rockets. NBA Insider Ramona Shelburne floated a new possible team in the Harden sweepstakes – the Phoenix Suns.

During a June 7 appearance on “Mason & Ireland” on ESPN Los Angeles, Shelburne mentioned the Suns as a possible suitor for Harden shortly after it had been reported by Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes that the Suns were planning to waive Chris Paul (which was later refuted by The Athletic’s Shams Charania).

“They don’t (waive Paul) unless they feel pretty good about somebody else, and I want you to keep your eye on James Harden,” Shelburne said. “I don’t want to report anything, but that was in the wind the past month or so. Everybody thinks it’s Philly or Houston, but there have been discussions in the wind.”

When asked if Harden and Durant were cool with one another, Shelburne confirmed that they are on good terms.

“(They’re) totally okay. Remember, they flew to Europe and hung out in London last summer.”

Durant and Harden have experience playing together on the Oklahoma City Thunder and Brooklyn Nets.

James Harden ‘Torn’ on Free Agent Decision

NBA Insider Shams Charania revealed on the June 6 episode of “The Ryan Russillo Podcast” that Harden is currently undecided on which team he will play for next season.

“I don’t think he knows. As far as what I know about his mindset, I don’t think he totally is there,” Charania said. “We’re less than a month out from free agency starting. I really think he’s torn with the prospect of staying in Philadelphia or moving on to Houston potentially and returning back to his home.”

Charania added who on Philly’s end could influence Harden’s decision, including new head coach Nick Nurse.

“I think whichever way it goes, it’s going to be relatively close. That’s why as we get closer to July 1, June 30th, those conversations that he’s going to have, as he becomes a free agent, with Nick Nurse and with Daryl Morey, what their vision is for him, what their vision is for that team, what that offer ultimately is going to be versus comparing it to whatever Houston comes with on June 30th or July 1, those are all very important factors.”

James Harden Predicted to Leave Sixers

Ky Carlin of Sixers Wire made a list of predictions of how the offseason will play out for each Sixer entering free agency

Carlin explained that because of all the reports of Harden’s interest in returning to the Rockets combined with what the Sixers are willing, or not willing, to offer him, he believes Harden departs Philly.

“Harden has been linked to a reunion with the Houston Rockets since Christmas Day. The Beard hasn’t exactly denied those reports, but one could figure that maybe he is using that as leverage to coax the Sixers into giving him more money. The Sixers are unlikely to give him a $200 million contract, but Harden and Morey have a close relationship, so one has to figure they will be able to work something out.

“Either way, where there’s smoke, there’s fire. These reports have been gaining steam, and one has to think Harden will likely be off to Houston.

“Prediction: Goes.”

The consensus thinking around the NBA is that the Phoenix Suns will make major roster changes during the 2023 free-agency period. And with an aging Chris Paul still owed more than $30 million next season, some believe a buyout could be on the horizon. Those thoughts seemed like even more of a possibility when NBA insider Brian Geltzeiler of Sirius XM reported that the Suns were “prominently on his radar” when referring to pending free agent superstar James Harden.

But as the free agency period drawers closer, Harden has already begun trimming down his list of preferred destinations. And unfortunately for the Suns, they have already been eliminated from the running. Per NBA insider Shams Charania, Harden has narrowed his choices to the Philadelphia 76ers and Houston Rockets.

“I don’t think he knows, as far as what I know about his mindset, I don’t think he totally is there,” Charania said during a recent appearance on the Ryen Russillo podcast.

“We’re less than a month out from free agency starting. I think he’s torn with the prospect of staying in Philadelphia or moving on to Houston potentially and returning back to his home. That’s where his roots are, and his family there, of course. They’ve got upwards of $60 million [in cap space]. They can make even more money available. Close to $70 million in cap space.”

Rockets To Take ‘Aggressive’ Approach This Summer

The Rockets seem to be looking to retool this summer. They parted ways with former head coach Stephen Silas ahead of the 2023 NBA Draft, where they will be selecting fourth overall. Now they have a brand-new coach in Ime Udoka, and much of his staff from the Boston Celtics squad that went to the NBA Finals in 2022 will join him in Houston.

The Rockets already have an impressive coop of young players such as Jaylen Green, Jabarai Smith Jr, and Kevin Porter Jr. And after being absent from the playoffs since the NBA Bubble, Charania expects the Rockets to be “aggressive” in building around their roster this summer.

“They’re going to have a ton of money and I think this is a team in Houston where I do believe they are going to be aggressive in the marketplace, potentially two-year deals, balloon-type deals,” Charania added.

“I’ve heard whether it’s Dillon Brooks, Brook Lopez, obviously James Harden. They’re going to be a team that’s going to be trying to beef up that roster.”

James Harden To Meet With Sixers About Future

Something to consider in Harden’s potential free agency is that he still has yet to win a championship. And while the Rockets have some solid, young players, they are nowhere near the tear of being an NBA title contender. The Sixers, on the other hand, have the reigning NBA Most Valuable Player in Joel Embiid and came within a game of reaching the NBA Eastern Conference Finals this season.

While Houston is among the favorites to reunite with their former MVP, Charania says that Harden returning to the Sixers is still a possibility.

“As we get closer to July 1, June 30th, those conversations that he’s going to have, as he becomes a free agent, with Nick Nurse and with Daryl Morey, what their vision is for him, what their vision is for that team, what that offer ultimately is going to be versus comparing it to whatever Houston comes with on June 30th or July 1, those are all very important factors,” Charania added.

“This is a guy that you would assume would sit down with both teams. Philadelphia is going to have a window earlier, potentially going in and scheduling meetings. This is a situation now where we’re going to see which way it lands.”

The biggest plotline for the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason will be if James Harden elects to stay with the team or leave for the Houston Rockets. Though there’s been plenty of speculation that Harden may leave for the Rockets, NBA Insider Shams Charania revealed on the June 6 episode of “The Ryan Russillo Podcast” that Harden is not sure where he’ll play next season.

Charania revealed that Harden is currently torn on his free-agent decision this summer between the Sixers and the Rockets.

“I don’t think he knows. As far as what I know about his mindset, I don’t think he totally is there,” Charania said. “We’re less than a month out from free agency starting. I really think he’s torn with the prospect of staying in Philadelphia or moving on to Houston potentially and returning back to his home.”

Charania added how new Sixers head coach Nick Nurse may factor into Harden’s decision this summer.

“I think whichever way it goes, it’s going to be relatively close. That’s why as we get closer to July 1, June 30th, those conversations that he’s going to have, as he becomes a free agent, with Nick Nurse and with Daryl Morey, what their vision is for him, what their vision is for that team, what that offer ultimately is going to be versus comparing it to whatever Houston comes with on June 30th or July 1, those are all very important factors.”

Nick Nurse’s Thoughts on Keeping James Harden

Nurse was asked about the prospect of coaching Harden during his introductory press conference on June 1. Nurse praised Harden while also vocalizing that he would like to have the former MVP on the roster.

“James Harden is a great player,” Nurse said. “I would say this is that James has a decision to make, and I would be very happy if he came back.”

Nurse also revealed what his pitch will be to Harden and all the other players currently on the Sixers.

“I am going to sit down, as I am with all of the guys. I am going to sit down with all of them 1-on-1, face-to-face here shortly, but listen, I think that winning is always the sell,” Nurse said, per Ky Carlin of Sixers Wire.

Fred VanVleet Named as Possible James Harden Replacement

Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported that Toronto Raptors star point guard Fred VanVleet could be Harden’s replacement for the Sixers if that’s how the Harden situation gets resolved.

“Leaving the Sixers after just one full season and signing elsewhere as an unrestricted free agent is a very real possibility for Harden, which is why Philadelphia has begun giving thought as to who could replace the former league MVP. According to league sources close to the organization, Raptors All-Star guard Fred VanVleet has emerged as a potential replacement for Harden this offseason.”

VanVleet is not only fresh off a 2022 All-Star campaign, but he has plenty of familiarity with Nurse as the head coach as well as having a title under his belt. He does not have the same resume as Harden, but he would be a good consolation prize, especially since he is younger than Harden too.

Though nothing is official until it’s official, the Philadelphia 76ers have to consider what they do next if James Harden leaves this offseason. If he does, Bryan Toporek of Liberty Ballers suggested Toronto Raptors guard Fred VanVleet as Harden’s replacement and how they could use Tobias Harris to get him.

“The Sixers could try talking the Raptors into taking Harris back in a VanVleet sign-and-trade,” Toporek wrote. “But that might require the Raptors to send out more salary, depending on how much VanVleet receives in his new deal.”

Harris is in the last year of a five-year contract he signed with the Sixers in 2019. He will be paid $39.3 million for the 2023-24 season. VanVleet, on the other hand, has a player option but is expected to be a free agent this offseason. For a sign-and-trade to happen, the Sixers, Raptors, and VanVleet would all have to agree to a deal.

All of this would depend on whether the Raptors decide that it’s time to move on from VanVleet. Much like Harden’s future with the Sixers, that has yet to be determined.

Sixers Interested in Fred VanVleet

Because Harden’s future with the Sixers is up in the air, the Sixers are looking into adding VanVleet as a replacement, according to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.

“Leaving the Sixers after just one full season and signing elsewhere as an unrestricted free agent is a very real possibility for Harden, which is why Philadelphia has begun giving thought as to who could replace the former league MVP. According to league sources close to the organization, Raptors All-Star guard Fred VanVleet has emerged as a potential replacement for Harden this offseason,” Siegel wrote.

VanVleet does not have nearly the same resume as Harden, but he is four years younger and is still fresh off an all-star appearance with the Raptors in 2022. Not only that, but he would bring championship experience to the Sixers, having won a title with the Raptors in 2019.

VanVleet has emerged as a talented scorer and playmaker, averaging 19.3 points and 7.2 assists a game during the 2022-23 season. His three-point percentage fell off, shooting 34.2% from distance, but it’s likely that it was the exception to the norm, as VanVleet is a career 37.3% shooter from three.

Fred VanVleet Praises Sixers Hiring Nick Nurse

VanVleet, who played under Nurse throughout his entire tenure as the Raptors coach from 2018 to 2023, praised the Sixers for hiring his former coach on “Inside the Association.”

“It’s just a different voice that they haven’t heard before. Something outside the box. He’s gonna bring new ideas, creative ideas. It’ll be a great breath of fresh air for them. Anytime you’re changing head coaches, that’s pretty much what you’re looking for is a new identity, a new voice for the guys to rally behind.”

VanVleet added that Embiid’s approval was key to hiring Nurse, which should serve to help the ixers.

“(They) pretty much had to get Joel onboard. I think once they got that. I think once Nick met with Joel, and as long as he’s signing off on all the crazy stuff that coach wants to do. I think that they’ll be in a good spot. I think they’ll have some success. Hopefully not too much if I’m not there, and I’m staying in Toronto, then we want them to fail, but other than that, I’m happy that he landed on his feet,” VanVleet said.

New Philadelphia 76ers head coach Nick Nurse had his introductory press conference on June 1. While talking with reporters, Nurse was asked if he wanted star James Harden back on the team. Nurse not only praised Harden but added that he would like him back on the Sixers.

“James Harden is a great player,” Nurse said. “I would say this is that James has a decision to make, and I would be very happy if he came back.”

Nurse confirmed that he had spoken with Harden after being hired by the Sixers. While he didn’t talk to Harden about him potentially returning to the team, Nurse revealed what his pitch will be to both Harden and everyone else on the team.

“I am going to sit down, as I am with all of the guys. I am going to sit down with all of them 1-on-1, face-to-face here shortly, but listen, I think that winning is always the sell,” Nurse said, per Ky Carlin of Sixers Wire.

Fred VanVleet Linked to Sixers as Possible Replacement

Though Nurse has gone on the record saying he would like Harden to stay with the Sixers, it appears one of his former players on the Toronto Raptors may come to the Sixers should Harden opt to leave.

Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported that Raptors star point guard Fred VanVleet could be an option for the Sixers if Harden skips town.

“Leaving the Sixers after just one full season and signing elsewhere as an unrestricted free agent is a very real possibility for Harden, which is why Philadelphia has begun giving thought as to who could replace the former league MVP. According to league sources close to the organization, Raptors All-Star guard Fred VanVleet has emerged as a potential replacement for Harden this offseason.”

VanVleet played for Nurse throughout his entire tenure with the Raptors from 2018 to 2023. In that time, not only did VanVleet win a title with the Raptors in 2019 under Nurse, but he also made the all-star team in 2022. VanVleet will enter the NBA offseason as an unrestricted free agency.

Sixers Have Not ‘Abandoned Hope’ of Keeping James Harden

There have been many rumors tying Harden to the Houston Rockets. In fact, Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reported on May 19 that Harden is expected to go back to the Rockets. However, Marc Stein reported on May 23 that, despite the rumors tying Harden to the Rockets, the Sixers still have hope to keep the former MVP.

“From everything I know, Houston’s interest remains genuine, and Philly has not yet abandoned hope of re-signing him. I know this isn’t the answer everyone probably wants to hear…but I suspect we’re a month away from a real resolution,” Stein wrote in a Substack chat.

Replacing Doc Rivers with Nurse could very well factor into whether Harden stays with the Sixers or not. Nurse confirmed in his introductory press conference that he has spoken with Harden since getting hired, so that may very well prove to make all the difference in what Harden’s decision will be this summer.

Most national NBA pundits share the stance that James Harden is more than likely leaving the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency — but CBS Sports’ James Herbert reacted to Nick Nurse’s recent hiring as head coach, writing as though Harden would be back in a Sixers uniform in 2023-24.

“Does Nurse expect Tyrese Maxey to hold his ground against bigger players as well as [Fred] VanVleet does? Will he ask Harden to study OG Anunoby’s isolation defense or tell Tobias Harris he has to cover ground like [Pascal] Siakam? Unlikely,” Herbert wrote on May 31, suggesting Harden will be to Nurse in Philadelphia what Anunoby was to Nurse in Toronto.

A Harden departure in free agency wouldn’t open up free agent spending for the Sixers, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks. So, the best-case scenario for the Sixers, according to SB Nation’s Liberty Ballers, would be for Harden to pick up his player option and hope a proven new coach can bring him, Joel Embiid and a likely revamped supporting cast to heights that Doc Rivers, who was fired May 26, never did.

James Harden Decision Determines Franchise Direction

What Harden decides to do by June 29 will determine how aggressive the Sixers will be in building an immediate contender with Nurse at the helm and Embiid under contract for up to four more years.

Re-signing with Philadelphia could have Daryl Morey, the Sixers’ president of basketball operations, looking to find a third star to pair with the team’s two former MVPs, with Trae Young, Damian Lillard, and Karl-Anthony Towns all being called “trendy offseason names” by CBS Sports’ Sam Quinn. Other players mentioned by Quinn who could be on the move in the offseason include Chicago Bulls stars DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine.

Harden’s spurning the City of Brotherly Love would make things more complicated, though. The front office would still have to find more help for Embiid, but could have to sacrifice depth to replace a player with a 25% usage rate. Instead of trading multiple assets for a star, the Sixers would possibly need to pivot and trade one player — be it Harris, P.J. Tucker or De’Anthony Melton — for multiple rotation players.

Harden’s decision is the biggest fork in the road the team has faced since Jimmy Butler’s free agency in 2019. The Sixers must navigate it wisely to avoid beginning the next “Process” prematurely.

Sixers Could Pursue Sign-&-Trade for Fred VanVleet: Report

ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel reported that unnamed sources said VanVleet, who played for Nurse on the Raptors, has “emerged as a potential replacement for Harden this offseason.”

“Unless they were to move contracts around prior to the start of free agency, the Sixers may not have the ability to sign VanVleet outright, making a sign-and-trade with the Raptors the most likely path to them landing him this offseason,” Siegel wrote.

Siegel listed several different members of the Sixers roster who’d make sense in such an offer.

“P.J. Tucker is set to make $11 million next season before having a player option next summer, while Tobias Harris is entering the final year of his contract valued at $39.2 million,” Siegel prefaced before saying, “Both players would be key options for the Sixers to potentially deal in a sign-and-trade to make the money work. De’Anthony Melton at $8 million and Furkan Korkmaz at $5.3 million are two other cost-saving options as well.”

Paul Reed has become a fan favorite for the Philadelphia 76ers, as he’s earned the nickname “Bball Paul.” Reed also started to play better when the Sixers gave him a bigger role as their primary backup for Joel Embiid. Reed will enter the 2023 NBA offseason as a restricted free agent, which could be troublesome for the Sixers following his breakout.

However, an Eastern Conference GM told Heavy Sports’ Sean Deveneny that James Harden’s potential departure could pave the way for the Sixers to keep Reed.

“They don’t want to lose him. They put a lot of work into getting him where he is. If James Harden leaves, it loosens things up, and they can keep (Reed) and maybe McDaniels, too.”

Because Reed played well after he was designated as their backup center full-time, the GM believes he will attract some suitors this summer.

“Reed will get some attention,” the GM told Deveney. “He will probably look for a full mid-level deal somewhere, maybe Chicago depending on what happens with Vucevic there. A young team, up-and-coming, like Sacramento. He could be a real target there because they need some big-man depth. There are threats out there. He will get a lot of interest. His stock has doubled since January.

Paul Reed Says He Wants to Stay With Sixers

After the Sixers were eliminated by the Boston Celtics, Reed expressed his desire to stay with the team while talking with Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer.

“If they would like to keep me, then I would like to come back for sure,” Reed told Pompey. “I really would like to come back.”

Furthermore, Reed explained why he was not surprised by his own success once the Sixers gave him a bigger role.

“This is stuff I already knew about myself,” Reed said. “You know, I’m ready to step up to the moment, be clutch when I need to. And, like a lot of people, pressure can bust pipes. But for me, I feel like pressure turns me into a diamond.”

Reed played in all 11 games for the Sixers during the postseason. In 14.3 minutes a game, Reed averaged 4.6 points and 5.5 rebounds while shooting 57.9% from the field overall.

Andre Drummond Named as Possible Paul Reed Replacement

With Reed’s upcoming free agency, podcaster Adam Aaronson of The Rights to Ricky Sanchez mentioned that it’s very possible the Sixers could lose him if offers for him are too rich for the Sixers’ liking.

“It will be hard to stomach letting Reed or McDaniels go, but each of them could theoretically fetch an offer sheet from a rebuilding team that’s hefty enough to make the Sixers nervous about matching,” Aaronson said.

If Reed, in fact, leaves, Aaronson brought up ex-Sixer and two-time all-star Andre Drummond as his replacement.

“This will not be the first time I have suggested this player, but if Reed actually does depart for a young team eager to price the Sixers out, why not bring back Andre Drummond?”

Drummond has previous experience playing as Embiid’s backup for the Sixers. However, for a reunion to come to fruition, Drummond will have to opt out of his current deal with the Bulls for next season, which has yet to be confirmed if that’s what he plans to do.

The Philadelphia 76ers will enter the offseason with two intriguing storylines – whether James Harden will stick around with the team or not and what the team will do with Tobias Harris’ $39.3 million expiring contract.

It’s very possible that these two storylines could overlap with each other, and if they do, podcaster Adam Aaronson of The Rights to Ricky Sanchez explained why the Sixers should look into acquiring Gordon Hayward.

While listing possible trades the Sixers could make with Harris’ deal, Aaronson explained why Hayward could be a viable option.

“The Charlotte Hornets jump out to me as well. They have Gordon Hayward on an expiring contract about $8 million cheaper than Harris’ deal. Hayward would make a lot of sense as a target if Harden walks, as the Sixers would need more reliable ball-handling.”

Hayward make the all-star team in 2017 during his days with the Utah Jazz, but a string of unlucky and, at times, graphic injuries during his time with the Hornets and Boston Celtics cut his prime short.

Though Hayward is not putting up the same scoring numbers he did with the Jazz, his playmaking abilities have remained, as he averaged 4.1 assists a game this season with the Hornets.

Doc Rivers’ Firing Does Not Ensure James Harden’s Return

Though the Sixers fired head coach Doc Rivers, an Eastern Conference GM told Heavy Sports’ Sean Deveney that doing so does not mean Harden will be returning to the team.

“They fired Doc Rivers, and James might have had a hand in that,” the GM told Deveney. “Maybe that clears the way for him to come back to the Sixers. But they were going to make that move on Doc either way. So, firing Doc does not guarantee that James comes back.”

In fact, there remains very much doubt in Harden’s return to the Sixers period.

“It is a huge concern. I think the bigger surprise now would be if he DID go back to Philadelphia,” the GM said.

If Harden does leave, the GM outlined to Deveney how the Sixers could adjust to his departure.

“They will try to make it a bigger trade, bring back Damian Lillard or someone like that. But the Rockets have cap space, they do not need to play that game, and they have no obligation to accommodate Philly. It is most likely they get a trade exception, then try to use that throughout the year to bring somebody in. Not ideal, but it is something.”

Sixers Have Not Abandoned Hope of Keeping James Harden

Despite the rumors tying Harden to the Houston Rockets, NBA Insider Marc Stein reported that the Sixers have not given up on the prospect of keeping him.

“From everything I know, Houston’s interest remains genuine, and Philly has not yet abandoned hope of re-signing him. I know this isn’t the answer everyone probably wants to hear…but I suspect we’re a month away from a real resolution,” Stein wrote in a Substack chat.

The Sixers will not have the cap space to replace Harden via free agency if he leaves, but Harris’ expiring deal could be used on a possible replacement.

After losing to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, it only took the Philadelphia 76ers two days into their offseason to fire Doc Rivers. An Eastern Conference GM told Heavy Sports’ Sean Deveney that firing Rivers does not ensure that James Harden will stay with the Sixers.

“They fired Doc Rivers, and James might have had a hand in that,” the GM told Deveney. “Maybe that clears the way for him to come back to the Sixers. But they were going to make that move on Doc either way. So, firing Doc does not guarantee that James comes back.”

The exec added that it might not matter what the Sixers do because Harden returning Sixers does not appear likely.

“It is a huge concern. I think the bigger surprise now would be if he DID go back to Philadelphia,” the GM said.

The GM finished by proposing what the Sixers might do next should Harden leave for the Houston Rockets.

“They will try to make it a bigger trade, bring back Damian Lillard or someone like that. But the Rockets have cap space, they do not need to play that game, and they have no obligation to accommodate Philly. It is most likely they get a trade exception, then try to use that throughout the year to bring somebody in. Not ideal, but it is something.”

Sixers Have Not Given Up on Re-Signing James Harden

Though there have been many rumors linking Harden to the Rockets, NBA Insider Marc Stein reported on a Substack chat on May 26 that the Sixers are not giving up on keeping Harden.

“From everything I know, Houston’s interest remains genuine, and Philly has not yet abandoned hope of re-signing him. I know this isn’t the answer everyone probably wants to hear…but I suspect we’re a month away from a real resolution,” Stein wrote.

The reports linking Harden to the Rockets date back to Christmas Day 2022, when ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski first reported Harden’s interest in going back to his previous team. On May 19, Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Harden is expected to return to the Rockets.

However, Stein’s report indicates that the Sixers have every intention to keep him despite the long-standing mutual interest between Harden and the Rockets.

Brian Windhorst Says James Harden is Creating Leverage

On the May 23 episode of “The Hoop Collective,” Brian Windhorst explained why he believes Harden is using the Rockets as leverage for a higher offer from the Sixers.

“I still suspect that all of that is one giant leverage play, that what James Harden really wants is to elicit the biggest offer out of the Sixers, even if it isn’t a max. Whatever the number of money is, for as long as many years as he can get, and that this slow dance for months, and these rumors are all sort of tied to that.”

After adding that Kyrie Irving is doing the same thing with his upcoming free agency, Windhorst explained why he believes both Harden and Irving are playing it this way.

“Just doing all of this, and whatever he may do between now and free agency to try to get the juiciest offer he can from the team that he’s on because those are the teams (the Sixers and Mavericks) that face the most damage from losing those guys.”

All indications are that James Harden will not only enter free agency this summer, but his two biggest suitors will be the Philadelphia 76ers and Houston Rockets. Though Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reported on May 19 that Harden is expected to reunite with the Rockets, NBA insider Marc Stein revealed in a Substack chat that the Sixers have not given up on re-signing him.

“From everything I know, Houston’s interest remains genuine, and Philly has not yet abandoned hope of re-signing him. I know this isn’t the answer everyone probably wants to hear…but I suspect we’re a month away from a real resolution,” Stein wrote.

While the Sixers are a team built to go on an extended playoff run, the Rockets are still in a rebuild after they traded Harden back in 2021. However, the Rockets will have over $60 million in cap space this summer and just hired former Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka fresh off a run to the NBA Finals in his first year as head coach, which could indicate their plans to build a winner.

Brian Windhorst Believes James Harden Is Using Rockets

On the May 23 episode of “The Hoop Collective,” NBA Insider Brian Windhorst stated that he believes that the Harden-Rockets rumors are a deliberate leverage play by Harden to get a better offer from the Sixers.

“I still suspect that all of that is one giant leverage play, that what James Harden really wants is to elicit the biggest offer out of the Sixers, even if it isn’t a max. Whatever the number of money is, for as long as many years as he can get, and that this slow dance for months, and these rumors are all sort of tied to that.”

Windhorst added that both Harden and Kyrie Irving have the same approach to free agency because they believe their current teams losing them would suffer quite a bit from their loss.

“Just doing all of this, and whatever he may do between now and free agency to try to get the juiciest offer he can from the team that he’s on because those are the teams (the Sixers and Mavericks) that face the most damage from losing those guys.”

Patrick Beverley Plans to Reunite With James Harden

Harden’s former teammate Patrick Beverley gave a few blunt responses when asked about both his free agency and Harden’s this summer.

On “The Pat Bev Podcast,” Beverley answered in the affirmative when about the chances of Harden going back to the Rockets and if Beverley himself would be joining him, as he said the chances of all of that happening are “very highly.”

Beverley revealed that he wanted to go back to the Rockets after the Orlando Magic waived him shortly after the NBA Trade Deadline, but the Rockets told him he wouldn’t get to play much and would only play a mentorship role for some of their younger players.

Beverley and Harden played together from 2013 to 2017 before Beverley was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Chris Paul.

The biggest issue facing the Brooklyn Nets is they don’t control their draft future.

With draft picks owed out from previous deals, namely the trade for James Harden in 2021, even the picks they have gotten back from subsequent transactions can’t offset the need to remain competitive.

But what if the Nets could get back some of that control, even if it would mean another deal with the Houston Rockets?

Nets get:

– Kenyon Martin Jr.
– Jae’Sean Tate
– 2023 1st Rd Pick (No. 4 overall)
– Future 1st Rd Picks (incl. Nets’ 2024 1st Rd)

Rockets:

– Cameron Johnson

“The point is to get a conversation going and enticing Brooklyn back with their lost draft capital is a great way to do so,” wrote Rockets beat writer Kelly Iko of The Athletic on May 25. “In essence, the Rockets get their hands on Johnson, a versatile two-way wing they’ve coveted for a while.”

Johnson, 27, averaged 16.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in 25 games with the Nets after the trade deadline while knocking down 37.2% of his triples.

In the postseason he was even better with an 18.5/5.8/2.8 line on .509/.429/.857 shooting.

But the former No. 11 overall pick will be a restricted free agent this offseason, and there are enough red flags to be at least partially wary of inking Johnson to the kind of deal he is expected to command, says former Nets assistant general manager Bobby Marks.

Marks also name-dropped the Rockets as a team to keep an eye on to make things interesting for Brooklyn. They will have enough money to come right out of the gates with a deal approaching and even surpassing $20 million annually.

“Teams almost never return picks to their original owners, which makes this trade a bit unrealistic,” wrote Nets beat writer Alex Schiffer in response to Iko. “But it would give the Nets a younger core around Mikal Bridges and the ability to tank for a possible co-star, even if it’s just for a season while getting another young and talented player with the No. 4 pick.”

Martin, 22, is a former second-round pick (No. 52 overall, 2020) who averaged 12.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists this past season. Heading into the final season of his rookie contract, he’s uber-athletic but his efficiency from beyond the arc has fallen in each of the last two seasons.

Tate, 27, went undrafted out of Ohio State in 2018 but has established himself as a feisty two-way contributor.

He averaged 9.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists this past season but struggled from deep, shooting 28.3%, a career low. Tate is heading into the second year of a three-year, $20.6 million contract with a $7 million club option for the 2024-25 season.

Keeping Cameron Johnson More Than a Business Decision

While the bottom line will almost certainly win out in the end, the Nets’ decision to do what it takes to keep Johnson this summer or let him walk out the door just months after acquiring him as part of the Kevin Durant trade is more than just business.

Johnson is best friends with the Nets’ current cornerstone in Bridges who does not shy away from being different from the previous building blocks in many ways.

He does, however, wish to continue playing alongside his “twin”.

“I do definitely want him back,” Bridges told Spencer Davies of Hoops Herald in an interview that debuted on May 17. “It’s just hopefully the money’s right, and I know he wants to stay here. And we need him and he’s been hooping man…But I definitely want him here, man. Hopefully, they get the deal done.”

Johnson has likewise said his desire to continue playing alongside Bridges will impact what he does in free agency.

Nets Could Have Chance to Land Amen Thompson

If the Nets were to agree to this trade, they would be getting a shot at drafting Overtime Elite (City Reapers) star Amen Thompson, a 6-foot-7 combo guard with a 7-foot wingspan who averaged 16.4 points, 5.9 assists, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.3 steals per game.

Those stats won’t translate to the NBA but they do showcase the multi-faceted impact that he can have on a game.

Other potential options at No. 4 include Thompson’s twin brother Ausar Thompson – who averaged 16.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 2.4 steals for the Reapers – Houston’s Jerace Walker, and Cam Whitmore of Villanova.

Brooklyn currently has picks Nos. 21, 22, and 51 in the 2023 NBA Draft set for June 22 at the Barclays Center.