The Philadelphia Sixers’ star point guard James Harden might get acquired by the San Antonio Spurs this offseason. James had requested a move to the Clippers nearly a week after Damian Lillard asked the Portland Trail Blazers to trade him to the Miami Heat. The Sixers have always been reluctant about trading the 34-year-old to the Clippers but after Damian got traded to the Bucks, the situation has heated up a bit.
Recently, James called the Sixers’ president a liar in public. The Sixers do not want to part ways with the veteran since his departure might result in the reigning MVP, Joel Embiid, asking for a trade. The Sixers want to avoid the rebuilding phase they would have to go through if that happens. Not a lot of teams are interested in the player after the ‘liar’ incident but the Spurs want to land him. Can they beat the Clippers at it? Here is all the information you need about the trade between the Los Angeles Clippers and Philadelphia Sixers involving James Harden.
What would the Spurs offer for James Harden?
The Sixers want a haul in return for their guard but since his value is declining quickly, the Spurs need to put a better offer than the Clippers on the table. James doesn’t have a say in where he gets traded and the Sixers would send him to whoever gives them better returns.
The Los Angeles Clippers are currently offering a trade package that includes an unprotected first-round pick and a pick-swap for James Harden, per @ShamsCharania.
Shams reported yesterday that Los Angeles offered a similar package for the 10x All-Star back in July.
— Philly Sixers Galaxy (@sixers_galaxy) October 6, 2023
How did James Harden perform last season?
The Arizona State Sun Devils product played 58 games for the Sixers last season and averaged 21 points per game. He also charted 10.7 assists and 6.1 rebounds per game while shooting 38.5 percent from beyond the arc.
The Clippers are offering a package including an unprotected first-rounder and a pick swap for James Harden, sources tell @ShamsCharania.
The latest on the James Harden saga, from The Bounce ⤵️https://t.co/Jf6oYqWf3U pic.twitter.com/Xr2p4reRHj
— The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) October 6, 2023
Why would the Spurs like to sign James Harden?
The Spurs recently added Victor Wembanyama to their roster via the lottery system. Now, they are set to build around him. Adding Harden to the mix would give them the experience they need. The ten time NBA All Star is one of the best scorers and would strengthen the Spurs for sure.
Will the Sixers finally part ways with James? How would the Spurs line up next season? We’ll keep you updated.