After several days of intense speculation, it finally happened. James Harden is a member of the Philadelphia 76ers, as first reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. The Sixers are sending Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, Andre Drummond, and two first-round picks to Brooklyn in exchange for the All-NBA guard.
This is no doubt Morey’s dream outcome. While sending Simmons to a key division rival is a bitter pill to swallow, Harden has been one of the NBA’s truly great offensive players for a decade now. He and Morey have a longstanding relationship, which should help when settling the long-term details of Harden’s future.
The Sixers have acquired James Harden in exchange for Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, and picks.
For Philadelphia, Harden will likely replace Curry in the starting five: Tyrese Maxey, James Harden, Matisse Thybulle (or Danny Green), Tobias Harris, Joel Embiid. There aren’t many better equipped teams in the league. This trade pushes the Sixers right to the forefront of the Eastern Conference playoff picture, with the Nets and Bucks shaping up as their primary competition.
The 32-year-old Harden has a player option worth $47.3 million next season, but the most likely outcome is an opt-out and extension. While there are legitimate health concerns with Harden, the Sixers should have no qualms about maxing the superstar guard. The Sixers have two top-10 NBA players, and that’s a rare gift.
This puts an end to months of speculation around Ben Simmons’ future with the franchise after last season’s flameout. He now joins possibly the ideal situation — teaming up with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, allowing him to focus on defense and tempo. Harden, on the other hand, is averaging 22.5 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 10.2 assists in what many have considered a “down” season.
A lot can change in the NBA, and nothing is certain, but the signs point to Harden sticking around beyond this season. Very few teams in the NBA are projected to have cap space next season, and none of them are top contenders. The Sixers are taking a risk, no doubt, but one that’s worthwhile when you consider Harden’s talent and his relationship with Philadelphia management.
James Harden is a Sixer, folks. Things are about to get very exciting.
UPDATE: Per Woj, Harden will OPT IN to his $47.3 million player option for next season.