James Harden, 10-time NBA All-Star, has informed the league that he will be exercising his player option for the upcoming season, securing his $35.6 million deal.

This decision comes as part of a strategic move by both Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers to collaborate on a potential trade that would facilitate his departure from the team, the sources revealed to The Athletic.

As speculation abounds, the Los Angeles Clippers and the Miami Heat are emerging as notable contenders in the pursuit of the seasoned player, according to sources within the league.

Several teams across the NBA have expressed their understanding that a player of Harden's caliber will likely have a say in determining his preferred destination, a sentiment underscored by his previous exit from the Houston Rockets in 2020.

In response to this development, the 76ers have already initiated discussions with other teams to explore potential trade scenarios involving Harden, as confirmed by sources familiar with the matter.

Throughout the process, it has been evident that the Philadelphia franchise does not see a long-term future with the star athlete.

James Harden, 33, showcased his skills last season, averaging 21 points and 10.7 assists per game. His notable trade from the Brooklyn Nets to the Philadelphia 76ers occurred in 2022, where he joined the team alongside Paul Millsap in exchange for Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, Andre Drummond, and two first-round picks. Before this, Harden had signed a two-year, $68,640,000 deal with the 76ers, demonstrating his commitment to the team.

The 2022-23 NBA season saw the Philadelphia 76ers clinch a respectable record of 54-28. However, their journey concluded in the Eastern Conference semifinals, where they were bested by the Boston Celtics.

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James Harden, Interested to Reunite with Rockets

The Philadelphia 76ers find themselves at a crossroads as star player James Harden signals his intent to explore a trade, marking his third team change since departing from the Houston Rockets in February 2021.

While the Sixers are not obligated to accommodate his request, Harden is determined to seek a new team.

The Sixers had the opportunity to offer Harden a lucrative four-year, $213 million contract in free agency, but it was unlikely they would commit to such a substantial long-term commitment.

Although Harden expressed interest in reuniting with the Houston Rockets, who have significant salary cap space amounting to $64 million, sources suggest that the Rockets' focus has shifted towards pursuing free agent Fred VanVleet from the Toronto Raptors, per ESPN.

On the other hand, Harden remains hopeful of joining a championship-contending team through a trade scenario.

While formal discussions on a free agent deal cannot commence until 6 p.m. ET on Friday, the involved parties were allowed to engage in conversations regarding Harden's decision on the $35.6 million player option due on Thursday.

James Harden Trade Rumors: LA Clippers Might Acquire 'The Beard'

Rumors of a James Harden trade to the LA Clippers have intensified, indicating that a potential deal may be on the horizon, according to All Clippers.

The Clippers and the New York Knicks are expected to be among the teams engaging with the Philadelphia 76ers in trade discussions.

Although the Clippers may not have the same package to offer as the Knicks, Harden's preference will play a significant role in determining his next destination.

Regarding potential assets, the Clippers could include players such as Norman Powell, Robert Covington, and Marcus Morris in a trade package.

However, there are uncertainties surrounding the involvement of Terance Mann, Nicolas Batum, or even Paul George.

While George's name has been circulating in offseason trade talks, it has not specifically been mentioned in connection to a potential James Harden trade.

Although the Clippers may not seem in immediate need of a major trade, their primary concern lies in the consistent health issues Kawhi Leonard and Paul George faced during the playoffs.

With only one healthy playoff run in the past four years, the team is eager for change due to the substantial injury concerns.

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Written by: Bert Hoover

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