In the market for a star
There are always teams in the market for a star player, but things for James Harden have been quiet. His desire to go to the Clippers, expiring contract, and frequent trade requests all play factors. Still, these teams could take a shot on his star talent.
5. New York Knicks
The Knicks have the assets to land a superstar but are waiting for the right player. They could have gone all-in on Donovan Mitchell, Damian Lillard, or Jrue Holiday. Instead, New York passed. Jalen Brunson plans on making his first All-Star appearance in 2024, and New York has a point guard to run their show.
4. Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers re-signed D’Angelo Russell this summer to a one-year deal plus a player option, which immediately made him a midseason trade candidate.
LeBron James turns 39 in December, and Los Angeles is all-in on winning the championship. They could look to trade for a star point guard but would risk repeating the Russell Westbrook experiment. Do not rule this out, especially if King James wants Harden.
3. Miami Heat
Pat Riley and the Heat are always searching for their next star. They wanted Damian Lillard and need a point guard. James Harden has shown no interest in heading to South Beach, and Riley won’t mortgage his team’s future on the Beard. These two might need each other if things are going south, so do not rule out a collaboration.