James Harden, Ben Simmons, same fight! Three years after experiencing the Ben Simmons soap opera, the Sixers find themselves in the same situation with James Harden! Ironically, the Sixers had ended the Simmons soap opera by transferring him against… James Harden. But the former MVP is angry with Daryl Morey and the leaders of Philadelphia. He felt insulted by their proposal, and he wants to join the Clippers.
Except that the Sixers ended discussions on Saturday night. The Clippers don’t have much to offer, and Harden’s huge salary limits options. Clearly, Philadelphia is counting on Harden for next season. Will he be there for the recovery in early October?
Sixers and James Harden trapped
According to The Athleticdo not count on it! “A source close to Harden has reaffirmed that the former MVP and 10-time All-Star no longer wants to play for Philadelphia and has no plans to attend training camp” write our colleagues. Harden would be convinced that a departure is always possible, and the decision of the Sixers, to end the discussions, is only a strategy. It is reminiscent of the Mbappé soap opera at PSG, except that the roles are reversed with a Mbappé, at the end of his contract, who wishes to play, and a club which puts him in the closet while waiting for him to extend or a substantial offer hits the table. But since this morning Kylian Mbappé is back in training…
For Harden, the Sixers are trapped because, whatever happens, the player will be a free agent in a year. If the 2018 MVP persists in staying at home, instead of training, Philadelphia will not hesitate to fine him fine after fine. As was the case for Ben Simmons. In the end, both parties have every interest in reaching an agreement. The Sixers on a sporting level, Harden on a financial level.
