NBA Rumors: James Harden’s future with Philadelphia 76ers is ‘very unclear’
NBA Rumors: James Harden’s future with the Philadelphia 76ers is reportedly “very unclear” at this point. The playoff run could decide it.
With all the information that we have at this point, it’s hard not to understand how much is at stake for the Philadelphia 76ers in this postseason run. And at least so far, it’s gone great for the Sixers. They currently hold a 3-0 series lead over the Brooklyn Nets in their first-round series and have looked overwhelming in every game. You can make the argument that they’ve been the second-best team in these playoffs behind the Boston Celtics.
But winning a first-round playoff series isn’t what this postseason is about for the Sixers. It’s about so much more for Philadelphia. You can make an argument that the team’s entire blueprint may be on the line with this postseason run.
And according to another report, James Harden’s future, specifically, with the Sixers is “very unclear” at this point. And with a player option for next season, I think it’s safe to say that how the team’s postseason run ends could dictate what the next move is for Harden.
The scenario in which James Harden would leave the Philadelphia 76ers
Looking at this team as a whole, I’d have to imagine that there is one main scenario in which Harden leaves the Sixers this summer. And, in my opinion, Harden likely decides to leave the Sixers if they once again lose before the Eastern Conference Finals.
You’d have to imagine that if the Sixers managed to make a conference finals or even the NBA Finals that it would be difficult (and unlikely) for Harden to sign elsewhere. Especially if the Sixers are able to add another piece or two in an attempt to get over the top.
However, if the Sixers have another disappointing end to their season, it wouldn’t be that surprising if Harden decided to take a step back and make another career-changing decision.
And the whispers continue to suggest that Houston remains an option for Harden if he were to leave Philadelpiha. They’re one of the few teams that will have the money to pay Harden a big deal, something that he’ll likely be seeking. And if Philly isn’t willing to give him that much money, perhaps Harden does give Houston strong consideration this offseason.
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Either way, this is just something else to keep in mind as the Sixers continue on this playoff run.