Former Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden left the City of Brotherly Love holding a grudge.
If he can prevent the Sixers from getting their top free agent targets this summer, it will be just another serving of sweet revenge for the 11-time NBA All-Star.
While making appearances at Fanatics Fest on Friday, July 17, James Harden was asked about LeBron James potentially going to the Cleveland Cavaliers for the 2026-2027 NBA season. Harden made it clear he would like to see James play for the Cavs—not the Sixers or anybody else.
“I hope he comes to Cleveland. It’s a perfect storybook finish. At home for his last year. He’s going to decide; he’s smart enough, and I don’t think anybody’s pitch is going to move him. Wherever he decides, obviously, the team is going to be a lot better,” Harden told a reporter.
“I hope he comes to Cleveland,” - James Harden wants to play with LeBron James on the Cavs 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/0776ymDfQZ
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) July 17, 2026
The Sixers have been utilizing multiple strategies to send their pitch. Mike Gansey spoke to James’ agent, Rich Paul. Bob Myers went on an episode of Paul’s podcast with Max Kellerman and did a public pitch; a group of players has reached out as well.
If the 76ers lose the LeBron sweepstakes, it won’t be due to a lack of trying. Harden hopes that the Eastern Conference rival in Ohio gets a third stint with the Hall of Famer on their roster.
What’s next for James Harden?
Since forcing his way out of Philly, Harden spent three seasons playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, where the Sixers sent him. During the 2024-2025 NBA season, Harden got back in the All-Star spotlight by averaging 22.8 points and 8.7 rebounds in 79 games.
In 2025-2026, the Clippers started off on the wrong foot, despite Harden’s strong play with the team. Although they started to bounce back as the season went on, Harden was ready to move on again. The Clippers sent him to the Cavaliers for his final 26 games of the regular season. Harden averaged 20.5 points and 7.7 assists.
Currently, Harden is on the free agency market. After his deal expired, the 36-year-old was free to speak with any team he wanted. However, there hasn’t been any action for Harden. The star guard is still expected to make his return to Cleveland, and his LeBron prediction makes that clear.
The ex-Sixer hopes to get a chance to play with James before he wraps up his legendary career. There’s a chance the 76ers will have to face a combination of Harden-Mitchell-James in 2026-2027, depending on LeBron’s final decision.
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