When James Harden joined the Clippers in 2023, he was optimistic about shedding the reputation of a journeyman. Having played for four teams in as many years, he dismissed the idea that he was making a big deal about leaving the Philadelphia 76ers.
He aimed to secure his first championship in Los Angeles, not too far from where he grew up in Artesia. Playing alongside fellow Southern Californians like Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Russell Westbrook seemed like a great fit, and surely he hoped for a longer commitment.
However, things have taken a downturn.
It was reported recently that Harden and the Clippers are trying to find him a new team before the trade deadline on Thursday. Talks have intensified with the Cleveland Cavaliers about trading him for Darius Garland.
The Clippers, having struggled to advance past the first playoff round in the previous two years, appear focused on clearing cap space for the 2027 offseason and gearing up for free agency.
Interestingly, Harden’s contract has its quirks. If he is waived by July 11, his $42.3 million salary for the upcoming season could drop to $13.3 million.
Sources suggest that what Harden wants is a fully guaranteed two-year contract worth $80 million after this season, but the Clippers seem hesitant to commit.
This split makes sense in some ways, yet it’s poorly timed since the Clippers had just been on a winning streak, boasting a 17-4 record leading into Monday’s game after a shaky 6-21 start to the season.
Harden, now 36, has been impressive this season, averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game.
He missed Monday’s game, citing “personal reasons,” along with the previous game’s absence against Phoenix. With his contract expiring at season’s end, he has some control over where he ends up.
Following a surprising loss to the 76ers, the team had to navigate concerning reports regarding Harden’s future.
“I respect his decision, or anyone’s decision, that’s all,” Leonard remarked, adding, “He will always be my son.”
John Collins expressed surprise but suggested they simply have to see how the situation unfolds.
Harden has offered stability this season, playing in 44 out of 49 games. For a while, it looked like the tandem of Harden and Leonard might actually work, with both players complementing each other well.
However, with Harden looking for security and the Clippers less inclined to provide it, it seems like this chapter might be closing disappointingly.
If no deal materializes by Thursday, Harden’s dissatisfaction could create complications for the Clippers.
Both sides are clearly eager to reach an agreement. Harden aims to secure a lucrative deal with a title contender rather than venture into the unknown with a team still searching for success. Meanwhile, the Clippers are looking to revamp their roster after failing to progress past the first playoff round for four seasons straight.
Clippers coach Ty Lue refrained from commenting directly on the trade talk. Yet, when asked about wanting Harden to stay past the deadline, he responded quickly.
“Who wouldn’t want to get James Harden?” he said.
