The NBA is investigating the actions of the Philadelphia 76ers and their guard, James Harden, to determine if they violated the league's newly implemented player participation policy during their opening night nationally televised game against the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday.

This comes as a significant early test of the league's efforts to enhance the availability of star players for high-profile games, according to ESPN.

League spokesperson Michael Bass informed ESPN that they are examining the circumstances surrounding James Harden's absence to establish a valid reason for his non-participation in the game.

The 76ers ultimately suffered a narrow 118-117 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.

Harden's situation revolves around the league's new policy to ensure star players are available for crucial national television matchups.

In this case, the Sixers decided to keep Harden in Philadelphia after his return to the team, following a 10-day absence due to a "personal matter," as cited by the team.

The Sixers believed that allowing Harden to stay at their practice facility and work with their development coaches and medical staff would be a more effective means of getting him into game shape, according to sources.

Harden wanted to travel with the team on their opening road trip to Milwaukee and Toronto. However, the Sixers were concerned about his physical readiness to play after an extended period away from the team.

Harden's only preseason scrimmage occurred on October 7 in Boston, further clouding his readiness for the season debut.

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76ers Speaks With James Harden After Being Stopped

General manager Elton Brand and head coach Nick Nurse spoke with James Harden, explaining the organization's workout plan, which required him to stay at the practice facility while the team was away, per Bleacher Report.

This program includes monitoring his physical metrics and speed using the facility's tracking system.

The Sixers' two-way players and a trainer Harden regularly works with were also set to stay in Philadelphia.

James Harden, reportedly frustrated with the situation, left the airport without further incident after talking with team officials.

The Sixers assert that Harden's physical preparation is their primary focus, while Harden's camp perceives it as an effort to eliminate potential distractions as the team embarks on a challenging two-game road trip.

In the new NBA policy, star players not participating in games must be visibly present on the bench to benefit fans.

Coach Nurse's message to the team during the preseason emphasized the importance of focusing on those present at the moment.

Notably, the team has not imposed fines on Harden for absences. His teammates have publicly and privately commended his professionalism and noted that he appears to be in excellent physical condition.

James Harden and 76ers

The situation with James Harden has been marked by his absence from the 76ers throughout the offseason.

He had previously expected that the team's general manager, Daryl Morey, would trade him or offer him a long-term contract, but neither of these scenarios materialized, FOX News noted.

Consequently, his relationship with the 76ers has been strained, as evidenced by his public criticism of Morey.

However, with potential trade talks with the Los Angeles Clippers falling through, Harden now appears eager to return to the court with the 76ers.

Throughout the lead-up to the season, Harden missed multiple practices, with the team attributing his absences to personal reasons.

Furthermore, it was reported that he has been assisting his mother, who is dealing with health issues.

Although he won't be present at the game on Thursday night, the fact that the team is monitoring his progress suggests a potential return to play soon.

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This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

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