Report: The Brooklyn Nets And Philadelphia 76ers Are Finalists In Trading For James Harden. What Team Would Harden Be More Successful With?
According to a tweet by Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers are the favourites in successfully trading for James Harden. While there have been many rumours about James Harden in the last few weeks, this news seems to be the most accurate. Even though chatter about a James Harden trade had died down, this news has resurfaced due to a situation that happened last night. James Harden expressed that the Houston Rockets are essentially a lost cause in a post-game interview and has given up on this organization. This clearly shows that Harden is frustrated and bothered by his situation in Houston and needs a new environment ASAP!
While Harden has expressed his demands of not wanting to be in Houston, his playstyle, off-court antics, and physical health have also taken a toll. Last night against the Lakers, he appeared physically unfit and has averaged less than 20 points in the previous four games, which has not happened since his time in Oklahoma. His consistent appearances at clubs is also an indicator that he wants to be traded.
It is clear that James Harden is done with Houston and is potentially leaving with a bad taste in his mouth. At first, he did appear to show professionalism on the court; however, his patience has run out. The Rockets are in a tight position and need to quickly figure out which team holds the best offer for him. Harden is a former MVP and one of the best players in the NBA, which entails that the Rockets will definitely receive a modest package for him. With Shams Charania stating that the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets are currently in pursuit of offering the best package for Harden, only time will tell who will win this trading war. However, the Brooklyn Nets are willing to trade all of their draft picks and future for James Harden.
The Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers are considered contenders in the Eastern Conference. Both rosters have improved dramatically this season and have a valid argument for winning the Larry O'Brien trophy this season. It makes sense as to why both organizations are in dire need of securing James Harden as he is one of the best players this sport has to offer. However, Brooklyn trading, essentially their future and potential depth for James Harden, is a big risk to make. Harden is known as a disappointing player in the playoffs and has yet to change this narrative. For a team with arguably the best scoring duo when healthy, trading for James Harden is a bad idea for Brooklyn as there would be chemistry issues on and off the court. The 76ers, however, could use James Harden to their advantage.
Shooting the basketball has been the biggest issue for Philadelphia. Last season, they struggled due to the lack of possessing reliable shooters and ultimately lost in the first round of the playoffs. This season, the 76ers added more shooters, depth and a more relaxed starting unit. The 76ers have also managed to be a top-five team in the NBA as they have a record of 8-4. Trading for James Harden would benefit this team but would also cost them a huge asset. While the 76ers have not revealed any proposed offer, a James Harden's trade would most likely require Ben Simmons, draft picks and other young assets like Shake Milton or Tyrese Maxey. Although that is a lot to give, the 76ers need a change if they want to be treated as title contenders. Giving up Ben Simmons for a former MVP that can help stretch the floor and play make would be enough to secure the 76ers a top-three seed in the Eastern Conference.
Houston is currently one of the worst teams in the NBA and should aim for a rebuild. This means that general manager Rafael Stone should target draft picks, young assets, or players with a one-year contract to relieve some salary. Depending on what Philadelphia and Brooklyn offer, the Rockets need to revoke their playoff status and build a roster surrounding Christian Wood. Even though John Wall was just traded to Houston, the possibility of the organization keeping him is quite slim. Christian Wood so far is the future of this team and was easily the biggest in last year's free agency. The Rockets may lose James Harden and potentially John Wall, but at least the city of Houston can be excited about Christian Wood.