The Philadelphia Sixers’ star guard James Harden might get involved in a trade deal with the Blazers. It is rumored that the two teams might swap their veteran point guards this summer. But neither of the players is going to be happy with this deal.
Damian requested a move to the Heat from the Blazers on the first day of the NBA trade window, and Harden requested a trade to the Clippers a while later. The two of them are reluctant to play for any other team than their preferred destination. But their teams might have other plans. Here is all the information you need about the trade between the Philadelphia Sixers and the Portland Trail Blazers involving James Harden.
Why would the Sixers trade-off James Harden to the Blazers?
Harden wants to play for the Clippers, but the Sixers are unlikely to move him there. His departure might result in Joel Embiid requesting a trade, and this deal prevents exactly that. Damian’s arrival would mean that Embiid again has a star player to team up with. Embiid is probably in his prime and would not like to be a part of a declining team. This deal gives a chance to the Sixers to keep their superstar count the same.
Colin Cowherd’s trade idea:
Philadelphia 76ers receive:
Damian Lillard
Scoot HendersonPortland Trail Blazers receive:
James Harden
Tyrese Maxey
Tobias Harris
Patrick Beverley(Via @TheHerd ) pic.twitter.com/GXbVpKItQh
— NBACentel (@TheNBACentel) August 4, 2023
Why would the Blazers like to sign James Harden?
The Blazers expect a haul in return for Damian which most of the teams can not afford. Trading off at least four first-round picks and 2 to 3 quality players for one star player is something that only a few teams can afford. Harden would be Damian’s replacement for the Blazers, although the Blazers might expect few draft picks or a player to be included in the package.
Bleacher Report’s trade idea:
Blazers receive:
James Harden
Kyle Lowry
Jaime Jacquez
Nikola Jović
2028 first-round pick(MIA)
2030 first-round pick(MIA)
2030 second-round pick(CHI)Heat Receive:
Damian Lillard
Jusuf Nurkić
2029 second-round pick (PHI)
2028 second-round pick… pic.twitter.com/aT9fELxdDF— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 4, 2023
What is James Harden and Damian Lillard’s situation?
Damian wants to play for the Heat, and his agent has warned that the player might not show up for the training camp if traded to any other team. Meanwhile, Harden wants to leave the Sixers and wants to play for the Clippers.
Harden has a strong trade history. His requests were fulfilled in the past. Can the veteran do it all over again? We’ll keep you updated.
