James Harden Traded from 76ers to Clippers
The Philadelphia 76ers traded James Harden to the Los Angeles Clippers early Tuesday morning. Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN first reported the deal.
Daryl Morey has finally ended the drama surrounding Harden. The return package has more to do with an eye on the long-term future or the possibility of an additional upcoming trade than it does with improving Philadelphia’s 2023-24 roster.
BREAKING: The Philadelphia 76ers have agreed on a trade to send guard James Harden to the Los Angeles Clippers, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/wAyuJKMfAw
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 31, 2023
James Harden Traded to Clippers
The former NBA MVP played 102 regular-season and playoff games with the Sixers. He ignited a new level of optimism in February 2022 when Morey acquired him from the Brooklyn Nets with Ben Simmons as the centerpiece of the return package. However, his only two seasons didn’t improve the status quo in Philadelphia.
The Sixers exited the NBA Playoffs in the second round for the fourth time in five seasons against the Miami Heat in 2022. They repeated the same fate in the 2023 NBA Playoffs against the Boston Celtics.
Although Harden would’ve been a key piece to the 2023-24 team, his relationship with Morey spoiled quickly after the devastating loss against the Celtics.
Harden repeatedly called his long-time friend a liar on the record. It was clear the relationship would never recover.
Return Package for 76ers
Morey also sent P.J. Tucker and Filip Petrusev in the deal. The Clippers sent Marcus Morris, Nic Batum, Robert Covington, and KJ Martin to the Sixers in return.
The Clippers did not include Terance Mann, who was originally at the center of trade rumors.
The Sixers will also receive a 2028 unprotected first-round pick, two second-round picks, a 2029 pick swap, and a first-round pick from an unannounced third team. They also waived veteran Danny Green for roster flexibility to accommodate the move.
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