3. History Stubbornness exists on both sides
Daryl Morey wins trades because of his stubbornness. It is how he has traded for multiple stars during his 16 years as a lead decision-maker. Morey waits for the perfect moment to maximize a player’s value. He wants to do that here, so the Sixers can stay in contention and keep Joel Embiid long-term.
James Harden is just as stubborn, and his quote from Aug. 14 makes it clear that he has zero plans of playing for the 76ers as long as Morey is still with the team.
"“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.”"
Neither side is just going to give up here. There will be more words through the media and behind closed doors. The pressure will mount as training camp approaches, but the stalemate will continue. Harden will miss the first few days before eventually reporting, and things will only get worse from there.
The Philadelphia 76ers have to worry about Joel Embiid’s happiness and ability to contend just as much as this Harden drama. Things go from uncomfortable to disaster in Philly if the reigning MVP wants out. Daryl Morey cannot let that happen, so there is pressure on both sides.
James Harden wants to join the LA Clippers, and history suggests that he will end up there eventually.