NBA Rumors: Is James Harden planning his exit from the Philadelphia 76ers?

NBA Rumors: Could James Harden already be planning his exit from the Philadelphia 76ers? 

When James Harden took a pay cut to re-sign with the Philadelphia 76ers during the offseason, many were shocked. But it showed how important winning an NBA title had become for James Harden.

But if that doesn’t happen in Philadelphia, there’s probably a good chance that Harden never wins one. He’s 33 years old and likely doesn’t have many prime years left in his career. The next two years are likely the best shot that Harden has at winning a title. And you’d have to imagine that he’s going to spend the next two seasons of his career with the Sixers. A team that he likely has the best shot to win a title with, especially playing next to Joel Embiid.

If he doesn’t, then what? Well, according to a recent report, that is something that Harden may be already thinking about.

During a segment on ESPN, Tim MacMahon noted that there are whispers around the league that Harden could return to Houston if things don’t pan out in Philadelphia. There’s no timeline connected to this “report,” or whatever you want to call it but it should be noted that Harden has a player option for next season.

James Harden is unlikely to leave the Philadelphia 76ers anytime soon

If nothing else, these rumblings are interesting. And perhaps this is a way down-the-line type of scenario. You know, perhaps Harden wants to eventually play his last few years in Houston. Maybe this is 3-4 years down the road. Either way, it does add another element to the pressure surrounding Philly this season.

The front office has to know that the clock is ticking and if they fail to make another deep playoff run this season, you can’t help but wonder how that will alter things during the offseason. Joel Embiid is one of the best players in the league but after a while, the constant falling short of expectations has to weigh heavy on him.

The same for Harden, who is looking for that elusive first NBA Championship.

I would be surprised if Harden was not a member of the Sixers next season but there’s no question that this report will only add to the pressure and intrigue that already surrounds this team.