Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden has been noticeably absent from the team, missing the final preseason game and multiple practices. As the team prepares for their regular-season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks, there is growing uncertainty about whether Harden will be available to play. The situation remains unclear, according to sources close to the team.
Harden’s absence stems from his ongoing frustration with the Sixers’ refusal to grant his trade request. He has been seeking a trade since exercising his player option for the 2023-24 season, worth $35.6 million. Harden’s desired destination is the LA Clippers, but his wish has yet to be fulfilled. It is reported that this lack of progress in the trade negotiations has contributed to his current frustrations.
A Strained Relationship
The strained relationship between Harden and 76ers president of basketball operations, Daryl Morey, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. The two have been closely linked since Morey facilitated Harden’s transfer from the Houston Rockets to the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2012. However, their relationship took a hit when Harden publicly referred to Morey as a “liar” during a shoe event in China. In subsequent interviews, Harden made it clear that he believed there was no chance of repairing the damaged trust between them.
Drawing analogies to a failed marriage, Harden emphasized the importance of trust in any relationship. In his own words, he stated, “When you lose trust in someone, it’s like a marriage… you lose trust in someone, you know what I mean? It’s pretty simple.” Clearly, the trust between him and Morey has been shattered, making a reconciliation seem highly unlikely.
Impressive Career Accomplishments
Despite the current turmoil, there is no denying the remarkable career that Harden has had thus far. He has been one of the NBA’s top players for the past decade, winning three scoring titles and the coveted league MVP award in 2018. Harden’s ability to lead the league in assists last season further solidifies his status as a dominant force on the basketball court.
The absence of James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers raises serious questions about his availability for the team’s upcoming regular-season opener. The frustration stemming from his desired trade and the strained relationship with the team’s president of basketball operations further complicate the situation. While Harden’s illustrious career achievements cannot be overlooked, his current circumstances leave fans and teammates wondering when, or if, he will return to the court. As the Sixers prepare for their opener against the Bucks, all eyes will be on whether Harden will be in uniform and ready to play.
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