After avoiding the court for the 76ers this season
In a dramatic turn of events, James Harden, a ten-time NBA All-Star, has made his way from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Los Angeles Clippers. Aged 33, Harden decided to park himself on the bench for the 76ers’ initial three matchups of the season due to an ongoing spat with 76ers president Daryl Morey.
Things reached a boiling point when Harden publicly labeled Morey as a “fabricator” following rumors that the 76ers had ceased trade discussions involving him.
Clippers president Lawrence Frank had high praise for Harden, stating, “James stands out as one of the NBA’s most remarkable and effective creators on the court. His exceptional combination of size and court vision allows him not only to elevate his own game but also to uplift those around him.”
This trade bonanza didn’t stop with Harden; it’s a full-on swap meet. The deal also sees 76ers players P.J. Tucker and Filip Petrusev heading west, in return for Clippers standouts Nicolas Batum, Marcus Morris, Robert Covington, and Kenyon Martin.
Frank couldn’t contain his enthusiasm, saying, “The talent pool around LA has been nothing short of exceptional in recent times. We’re thrilled to amalgamate these high-caliber players and are keen to witness the magic they’ll undoubtedly create with our existing roster.”
News of the trade was officially released by the Clippers on Wednesday, following a ripple of controversy Harden created by threatening to go on strike. This was in protest of the 76ers’ unwillingness to put him on the trading block.
Back in August, Harden had been pretty candid about his dream to play alongside Clippers big shots like Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and his ex-teammate Russell Westbrook. He minced no words in declaring he would never suit up for the 76ers as long as Morey was calling the shots.
While attending a promotional function in China, Harden declared, “Daryl Morey is nothing but a fabricator, and I refuse to be associated with any organization he’s a part of.” He was slapped with a $100,000 fine by the NBA, who corroborated that his comments were rooted in his conviction that the 76ers had no intention of trading him.
An ESPN report suggests that negotiations between the 76ers and the Clippers initially hit a wall due to the stringent demands laid down by Philadelphia.
The story of Harden and Morey stretches back to their time in Houston, where Morey was the general manager and Harden was the star of the show for over eight seasons. This relationship played a pivotal role in Harden’s initial move to Philadelphia, a deal that shipped Ben Simmons off to the Brooklyn Nets. In the City of Brotherly Love, Harden teamed up with the reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid, driving the 76ers to the Eastern Conference semi-finals last season. Alas, they squandered a 3-2 series lead against the Boston Celtics.
Last season, Harden was the league’s assist leader, averaging 10.7 per game, along with an impressive 21 points and 6.1 rebounds.
A native of California, Harden is making somewhat of a homecoming, having grown up approximately 21 miles from where the Clippers hold court.
So, there you have it. As the curtain rises on this new chapter, both the Clippers and Harden must be hoping it’s scripted with alley-oops, three-pointers, and a lot less drama.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about James Harden trade
Why did James Harden leave the Philadelphia 76ers for the LA Clippers?
James Harden left the 76ers for the Clippers due to an ongoing feud with 76ers president Daryl Morey. Harden had publicly expressed his discontent with Morey and had even threatened to go on strike if he wasn’t traded. He was eager to join the Clippers to play alongside stars like Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and his former teammate Russell Westbrook.
Who else was included in the trade deal?
The trade also included P.J. Tucker and Filip Petrusev from the 76ers, who were traded for Clippers players Nicolas Batum, Marcus Morris, Robert Covington, and Kenyon Martin.
What was Clippers President Lawrence Frank’s reaction to the deal?
Lawrence Frank, the Clippers’ president, was enthusiastic about the acquisition. He praised Harden as one of the most remarkable and effective creators in the NBA and expressed excitement about the new amalgamation of talent on the Clippers team.
What penalties did James Harden face for his comments about Daryl Morey?
Harden was fined $100,000 by the NBA for publicly calling Daryl Morey a “liar” and stating that he would not play for any organization that Morey is a part of.
How did James Harden perform in the previous NBA season?
In the previous NBA season, Harden led the league in assists with an average of 10.7 per game. He also averaged 21 points and 6.1 rebounds. He was a crucial part of the 76ers’ run to the Eastern Conference semi-finals, where they eventually lost to the Boston Celtics.
What’s the history between Daryl Morey and James Harden?
Daryl Morey was the general manager of the Houston Rockets when Harden spent over eight seasons with the franchise. Their relationship was a key factor in Harden’s initial move to Philadelphia, which also led to Ben Simmons being traded to the Brooklyn Nets.
Is this a homecoming for James Harden?
Yes, James Harden grew up approximately 21 miles away from the Clippers’ home venue in California. The move represents a sort of homecoming for Harden, adding another layer of intrigue to this blockbuster trade.
What impact could this trade have on the Clippers’ season?
While it’s difficult to predict with certainty, the addition of a ten-time NBA All-Star like James Harden could significantly boost the Clippers’ chances in the upcoming playoffs. Harden’s playmaking ability is expected to synergize well with existing stars like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
More about James Harden trade
- ESPN’s Report on James Harden Trade
- NBA Official Statement on Harden’s Fine
- Lawrence Frank’s Comments on Clippers’ Website
- History of Daryl Morey and James Harden
- James Harden’s Previous Season Stats
- Philadelphia 76ers’ Official Statement
- Overview of NBA Trades This Season
- Insight on Clippers’ Current Roster
- James Harden’s Career Highlights
10 comments
ppl saying this is a homecoming for Harden, but lets remember he was in OKC and Houston for most of his career. still, nice narrative I guess.
Harden coming back to Cali is so awesome! Cant wait to see him in a Clippers jersey. the west just got even more competitive, y’all.
Finally, Harden’s outta Philly! No offense, but that relationship was doomed frm the start. He and Morey are like oil and water lol
I remember when trades were simpler. Now it’s all drama and soap opera stuff. But hey, its entertaining, cant deny that.
Interesting trade for sure. Harden led in assists last season, but can he continue that form with the Clippers? Plus, the chemistry aspect is intriguing.
Didn’t see this coming, kinda like a plot twist in a Marvel movie. Should be an interesting season!
As a 76ers fan, I gotta say good riddance. Talent ain’t everything, ya need team chemistry too. Let’s see if we got a better deal out of this trade.
Anyone else think Harden’s gonna totally dominate this season? i mean, with Kawhi and PG, this is like a super trio in the making.
Woah, Harden to the Clippers? That’s massive news. Wonder how he’s gonna gel with Kawhi and PG. Watch out, NBA!
I’ll believe it when I see it. Great players don’t always make great teams. Remember the Nets?