Over the weekend, the Philadelphia 76ers called off all trade talks involving James Harden and stated they would expect Harden to be at training camp. Early Monday morning, NBA Insider Shams Charania shared a video from Harden’s China tour for Adidas in which he blasts 76ers president Daryl Morey. Morey and Harden have a relationship dating back to the Houston Rockets.
“Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of,” Harden told those gathered. “Let me say that again: Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of.”
James Harden: “Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of. Let me say that again: Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of.” pic.twitter.com/AmHJ0WwbF2
On Saturday, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski ended trade talks for Harden, who has a preferred destination of the Los Angeles Clippers. Harden picked up his $35.6 million player option but the Sixers’ request for Harden was too high for most bidders.
James Harden reportedly doesn’t intend to participate in training camp for the 76ers, despite the team deciding not to trade him. According to a new report from The Athletic, Harden remains adamant about his time in Philadelphia coming to a close before the start of next season.
“No matter what signals the Sixers might send when it comes to trade talks, a source close to Harden reiterated that the 10-time All-Star and former MVP no longer wants to play for Philadelphia and has no plans of taking part in training camp,” Sam Amick of The Athletic writes.
James Harden Protests A Call During The NBA Playoffs
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – MAY 11: James Harden #1 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts to a play against the Boston Celtics during the second quarter in game six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2023 NBA Playoffs at Wells Fargo Center on May 11, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
The report continues: “Does that mean he won’t report if a deal doesn’t go down by that point, or that he’ll make a messy spectacle of his training camp arrival like he did when he was trying to get out of Houston back in December of 2020? That part remains unclear, with Harden’s side still expressing a belief that there will be meaningful developments on the trade talk front before that time comes. The source spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation.”
The 76ers initially agreed to search for a trade partner for Harden when he signed his $35.6 million player option in June. Unfortunately for both sides, it seems they were able to find a suitable deal. If Harden does return, he’ll be back to playing alongside MVP-winning center Joel Embiid. Despite sweeping the Brooklyn Nets in the first round of the 2023 NBA playoffs, they failed to make it passed the Boston Celtics in the second round. As a result, the team fired head coach Doc Rivers, who had been with the organization since 2020.
This past weekend was an eventful one for the stars of the Philadelphia 76ers, as Joel Embiid got married on Saturday and thoroughly enjoyed himself, FaceTiming Meek Mill to rap “Dreams and Nightmares” to him from the ceremony while also dancing up a storm.
Joel Embiid took the mic and started rapping “Dreams & Nightmares” to Meek Mill on FaceTime during his wedding
While that was happening and a handful of Embiid’s teammates were in attendance for his nuptials, James Harden and PJ Tucker were down in Miami enjoying themselves at Rolling Loud, where a video went viral of Harden grabbing four (4) hamburgers from legendary Houston rapper Bun B.
Listen, who among us has not been enjoying themselves at a concert, maybe had a few beverages, and not wanted to eat four hamburgers. I would do the same thing as Harden if presented with a tray of free burgers, so I am not going to be one to throw stones here.
That said, plenty of folks online began making connections between Harden’s statement (or maybe threat) earlier in the week to make things “uncomfortable” on his Instagram story amid the reports he’d be more than willing to report to camp and be a distraction should the Sixers not meet his trade request by October. Harden knows better than most how to turn up the heat on a team and make clear he doesn’t want to be there, as he put on some pounds in Houston when he wanted to leave the Rockets and made the Nets locker room miserable before being dealt to Philly. Maybe this is part of the program, maybe he’s taking burgers to some friends, or maybe he was just a very hungry fella. Either way, it is a pretty funny video of him just stacking burgers in his arms and disappearing into the night.
James Harden’s sign-to-trade return to the Sixers was one of the first major shocks of the NBA offseason. Since the veteran officially exercised his player option, the Sixers have attempted to find an equitable trade. However, hope remained within the organization that Joel Embiid, alongside new head coach Nick Nurse, could convince Harden to stay.
However, it appears that Harden is set on leaving the City of Brotherly Love. According to ESPN‘s Ramona Shelburne, Harden has reiterated his desire to be traded. Harden has played for the Sixers since a midseason trade with the Nets during the 2021/22 campaign. Across 79 games for the Sixers, Harden is averaging 21 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 10.6 assists per game. During the 2022/23 season, Harden led the league in assists per game.
Harden Still Wants Out
“James Harden has spoken to Daryl Morey since the first trade request, and I think there was some cooling off period. ‘OK, let’s let this lie and see how things play out,’” Shelburne said. “And they’ve spoken again, and he still reiterated he wants to be traded. Now, this isn’t a demand, it’s a request. And I think the Sixers have said, ‘OK, we will try to trade you, but there is no hurry to do this. I think the Sixers understand here that they have the leverage here,” Shelburne continued. “[Harden] picked up his option, this is an opt-in to a contract and he’s going to be a free agent after this season. And so, at some point, he needs to play, whether that’s in Philadelphia or elsewhere.”
It’s an eerily similar situation to the one unfolding in Portland. Blazers GM Joe Cronin has said he is willing to wait “months” to trade Damian Lillard. This is because, despite Lillard’s desire to leave Portland, he has no leverage in the situation. The Blazers are able to wait on the right trade package, knowing the only person who gets hurt by retaliation is Lillard himself. Similarly, as Shelburne mentions, Harden can’t afford to hold out on the Sixers given that he will be on the free agent market season. However, contrary to the Portland situation, things still appear to be amicable between Harden and the Sixers. However, this is a developing story and we’ll have any updates here at HotNewHipHop.
Joel Embiid and James Harden have made a solid duo over the past couple of seasons. However, they have not been able to get out of the second round. Throughout Embiid’s career, he has yet to make it into the Eastern Conference Finals. Overall, it is a bit of a disappointment, and fans will not let him forget about it. Although, with a little bit of help and even some luck, Embiid could definitely win an NBA title. The conditions for such a thing to happen just need to be 100 percent perfect.
Now, however, James Harden is asking for a trade out of Philadelphia. This could seriously mess up the team given their circumstances. If the return for Harden is no good, there will be no second superstar on the team. This would subsequently make the Sixers a lesser team. Moreover, it would put more of a burden on Joel Embiid. Having said that, it should come as absolutely no surprise that Embiid is very much interested in Harden staying with the team.
Spoke to Joel Embiid about James Harden’s trade request – Embiid said he’s hopeful Harden’s “mindset can be changed.” The two were partying with @MichaelRubin last night at the @Fanatics/@TheNBPA Summer League blowout. pic.twitter.com/9sKwp3HGsg
Recently, Joel Embiid got to speak with none other than Rachel Nichols about the James Harden situation. Overall, Embiid is asking Harden to stick around. Simply put, he wants the superstar to reconsider his life choices here. The reigning MVP firmly believes that if Harden were to stay, the team could compete for an NBA title. Although, there is really no evidence of that right now. Against the Boston Celtics, the Sixers were unable to get the job done and there is currently no indication that the Sixers are getting significantly better.
Unfortunately, it is going to continue to be a very difficult off-season for the Philadelphia 76ers. They have some big decisions to make that could ultimately also decide Joel Embiid’s future. Hopefully, for those fans, they don’t have to restart the process, anytime soon. Let us know what you think is going to happen, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news from around the sports world.
James Harden, whose signature sneaker is the Adidas Harden Vol. 7, has left an indelible mark on basketball. Known for his dynamic style of play, Harden’s skills have mesmerized fans worldwide. His impact extends beyond the court, with a signature beard and captivating personality that have made him an influential figure in the basketball community. Additionally, his collaboration with Adidas on the Harden Vol. sneaker line has created immense popularity among sneaker enthusiasts. Harden’s contributions to basketball and the sneaker culture have solidified his status as a popular icon.
When NBA players secure sneaker deals, it has a profound impact on the sneaker world. These partnerships create a bridge between sports and fashion, influencing trends and consumer preferences. The endorsement of basketball stars introduces their signature shoe lines, captivating fans and enthusiasts alike. Sneaker deals offer players a platform to express their unique style and personality, while also fueling competition among brands to create innovative designs. Ultimately, the collaboration between NBA players and sneaker companies drives excitement, and sales, and shapes the ever-evolving landscape of the sneaker culture.
This high-performance basketball sneaker is definitely not a quiet shoe. This sneaker is vibrant, so it’s fitting that it’s releasing this summer. The upper is made from a lightweight material and is dressed in a flash aqua color. The rubber sole is the same color and it also features a white detail. The sneaker also features a bronze-like patch on the middle of the sneaker, creating an interesting dynamic. A flash aqua sock liner completes this sneaker that is made for performance.
Kicks On Fire reports that the Adidas Harden Vol. 7 “Flash Aqua” will release on August 15. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $160 when they drop. Further, make sure to let us know what you think about these kicks in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the most recent updates and news from the sneaker community. We’ll make sure to offer you the newest products from the most notable brands.
It appears that the needle has swung back towards ” trade” in the James Harden saga. Furthermore, it appears that the Clippers are the primary landing spot for the 10-time all-star. Per Sam Amick and Kelly Iko of The Athletic, Harden has identified the Clippers as his preferred destination. Furthermore, trade talks between the two sides are already underway. Additionally, Paul George and Kawhi Leonard are both reportedly “on board” with the addition of Harden, per league sources.
With Harden essentially pushing for a trade, the Sixers can’t exactly push for a king’s ransom. However, the Clippers can’t exactly swindle the Sixers given the need to offset Harden’s $35.6 million salary. A package involving Norman Powell, another player with a big enough salary, and some picks would likely get the deal done. No formal trade has been agreed to yet, However, both sides will likely be eager to get the trade completed quickly so they can better focus on free agency. Now it appears that the Clippers are starting to make some moves to accommodate Harden.
Ivica Zubac Joins Trade Block
Our final pre-free agency notebook is live @YahooSports, featuring a full breakdown of what broke down between James Harden and the Sixers; plus details on Bruce Brown, Strus, Kuzma, Lakers, Suns and everything in between: https://t.co/d78WH4XLrH
According to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, the Clippers have added Ivica Zubac to the trade block. Zubac put up 10.8/9.9/1.0 in 76 starts for the Clippers last season, marking career highs in ppg and pg. His 9.9 rebounds per game were 11th-highest in the league and overall, he was a solid contributor for the team. Furthermore, he has been a top-tier interior defender in his five seasons with the Clips. Zubac has played at least 70 games in each of the last four seasons.
It’s not confirmed that Zubac would be part of the return for Harden. However, it’s hard to see the Sixers needing Zubac, given he plays the same position as reigning MVP Joel Embiid. It’s hard to see the Sixers agreeing to take on Zubac’s $22 million for essentially a backup center. However, Zubac’s trade availability may only be tangentially related to the Harden trade. The case could be that the Clippers want to build a superteam around Harden-George-Leonard and Zubac simply doesn’t fit into that idea. This is a developing story and we’ll have any updates here at HotNewHipHop.
The NBA offseason got its latest twist when James Harden exercised his player option with the Sixers hours before he would have become a free agent. However, that didn’t mean that Harden was staying in Philly. Per Shams Charania, Harden exercised his option year so that he and the Sixers could work out a trade. It’s a bizarre turn of events after Harden was reportedly “pretty on board with everything that Nick Nurse was saying in terms of trying new ways to optimize him, trying new ways to kind of re-vamp or re-tool that Philadelphia 76ers offense.”
Later, there were reports that a Harden trade wasn’t a guarantee. Instead, it was believed he could stay with the Sixers if an equitable trade to a contender wasn’t possible. Despite this, the Clippers and Knicks were both floated as interested parties. Now, it appears that the needle has swung back towards ” trade”. Furthermore, it appears that the Clippers are the primary landing spot for the 10-time all-star.
Sixers, Clippers Reportedly Working On Harden Trade
James Harden has identified the Clippers as his preferred destination and there’s optimism a trade will materialize, sources tell myself and @sam_amick.
More details on a looming 76ers breakup and the road that lies ahead.
Per Sam Amick and Kelly Iko of The Athletic, Harden has identified the Clippers as his preferred destination. Furthermore, trade talks between the two sides are already underway. Furthermore, Paul George and Kawhi Leonard are both reportedly “on board” with the addition of Harden, per league sources. The question will be as to what the Sixers will want in return.
With Harden essentially pushing for a trade, the Sixers can’t exactly push for a king’s ransom. However, the Clippers can’t exactly swindle the Sixers given the need to offset Harden’s $35.6 million salary. A package involving Norman Powell, another player with a big enough salary, and some picks would likely get the deal done. No formal trade has been agreed to yet, However, both sides will likely be eager to get the trade completed quickly so they can better focus on free agency, which officially begins at 6pm ET on June 30. This is a developing story and we’ll have any updates here at HotNewHipHop.
In the latest twist of the NBA offseason, James Harden has exercised his $35.6 million player option with the Sixers. This means, unlike almost expectations, Harden will not test free agency. The news was somewhat expected, given the most recent reports of a positive meeting between Harden and new Sixers coach Nick Nurse. However, that’s where things stop making sense.
Per Shams Charania, Harden has opted-in into his option year so that he and the Sixers can work out a trade to send him out of Philly. It’s a bizarre turn of events after Harden was reportedly “pretty on board with everything that Nick Nurse was saying in terms of trying new ways to optimize him, trying new ways to kind of re-vamp or re-tool that Philadelphia 76ers offense.”
JUST IN: James Harden is opting into his $35.6 million deal for next season – in order for the 10-time All-Star and the 76ers to work together on a trade out of Philadelphia, league sources tell @TheAthletic@Stadium.
The move comes about 25 hours before the start of free agency. It has been suggested that the move comes as a result of a muted free agency market for the 10-time all-star. Now, the Sixers will be able to work within the bounds of Harden’s existing contract, while trying to find an equitable trade for the veteran player. Per additional reporting from Charaina, the Clippers are expected to emerge as suitors for Harden’s services. However, it is still very much a developing story, so more teams could make themselves known in the coming days.
Earlier in the offseason, the Clippers were in line to acquire Malcolm Brogdon from the Celtics. However, that deal fell through over dubious medicals. Brogdon remains in Boston, with Marcus Smart heading to Memphis as part of a three-team trade to get Boston Kristaps Porziņģis. However, the Clippers do have the space to accommodate Harden. A trade including the likes of Marcus Morris and Normal Powell could work out for the two sides. Where do you think Harden will land? Let us know in the comments. Furthermore, this is a developing story and we’ll have any updates here at HotNewHipHop.
Tim Legler has built a great career out of being a respected studio analyst. The former NBA sharpshooter always brings his A-game to the studio desk when discussing the game. On Tuesday, Legler joined the crew on ESPN‘s ‘First Take‘ to talk about the league. Including the future of the Philadelphia 76ers. The Sixers were stacked with talent this past season. However, a team with two NBA MVPs came up short of appearing in the Eastern Conference Finals. A season that could be looked at as a failure.
For Legler, he doesn’t believe the Sixers will do anything greater than they already have. “[James Harden] disappears in 4th quarter of games where he doesn’t want any part of that moment… Joel Embiid’s body language shows it every time James Harden looks like that… He saw the same thing with Ben Simmons.” Harden did disappear in vital moments during the Sixers elimination game against the Boston Celtics. Philadelphia fans know all too well how painful it is to see a superstar not show up in the big moments.
“[James Harden] disappears in 4th quarter of games where he doesn’t want any part of that moment… Joel Embiid’s body language shows it every time James Harden looks like that… He saw the same thing with Ben Simmons.”
While Legler torched Harden’s recent play, he still offered an answer to the franchise’s issue. Legler believes the franchise already has its next star on the team. Tyrese Maxey blossomed in this past season’s playoff run for Philadelphia. Legler isn’t the only one shouting praises for the young guard. However, Legler does feel that Maxey will never reach his full potential with Harden on the roster. As painful as it may sound, moving on from Harden is starting to make more sense as the days go on.
Every team is looking up and down their roster on how to get better before next season. The Denver Nuggets were the deepest and most talented team at the finish line. Now, who is going to take it upon themselves to challenge Denver for their throne next season? What moves do the 76ers need to make in order to finally win the Eastern Conference? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section. For the latest news in sports, keep it right here with HNHH.
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