Ranking potential landing spots for James Harden
By Tyler Watts
Rebuilding teams with 0 interest in James Harden
These four teams do not plan on contending this season, which destroys the fit from both sides.
22. Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers just traded Damian Lillard and wanted to clear minutes for Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, and Shaedon Sharpe. There is no way they are trading for James Harden.
21. Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets passed on Scoot Henderson at second overall in part because the franchise is building around LaMelo Ball. It would make zero sense to trade for James Harden and take the ball out of LaMelo’s hands.
20. Washington Wizards
Washington entered a full rebuild this summer when they traded Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis. They added Tyus Jones to be their starting point and Jordan Poole is his new backcourt partner. The Wizards are not focused on winning and have no reason to trade for James Harden.
19. Detroit Pistons
Detroit had the worst record in the NBA last season, but they do not have room for Harden. New head coach Monty Williams will ensure the Pistons improve as they are build around Cade Cunningham.
He will handle the ball plenty, and the Pistons drafted Jaden Ivey fifth overall in 2022 to be their point guard of the present and future. The Beard does not want to go to a rebuilding team and would have zero interest in playing for one with a crowded backcourt.
Even teams who want to take a step forward are steering clear of James Harden.