2. Miami Heat
Full disclaimer, the Miami Heat would only be a feasible option for James Harden in the event that they unexpectedly miss out on Damian Lillard. Lillard is clearly the Heat’s focus right now and maybe in the Portland Trail Blazers ruin their plans, only then would they be open to a pursuit of Harden. For a minute, let’s assume that the Heat does miss out on Lillard. Let’s assume that the Heat is in search of another missing piece for their championship puzzle.
Harden should be the team’s next option if they miss out on Lillard. Harden may not be as good as Lillard but he would still be a huge upgrade for the team as they try to defend their Eastern Conference crown. Harden may not be as great of a fit next to Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, but he’d certainly fill a need for a team that appears to be so close to winning an NBA Championship.
The big question is whether the Heat has enough assets to appease the Sixers in a potential trade. Tyler Herro, a couple of the team’s emerging young players, and a draft pick or two would have to be involved. Who knows if that’s something the Heat would be open to?