76ers Waive Ex-Lakers Star Amid James Harden Tussle

Something is always up with the Philadelphia 76ers. The front office has made the decision to waive their veteran center, Montrezl Harrell. This is due to the league’s restrictions when it comes to maintaining the roster at 15 players with standard contracts. 

The number rose to 16 in late September when the Sixers signed shooting guard Kelly Oubre Jr.. President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey, who is already struggling with the James Harden trade drama, had to make tough roster decisions and hence this move. 

This waive comes after re-signing this summer

Shams Charania, Senior lead NBA Insider for The Athletic and Stadium, reported that this move is due to Harrell’s ACL/meniscus injury and absence from playing. Harrell joined the 76ers last summer from Charlotte Hornets. 

Since his addition, he quickly established himself as the best second-option to Joel Embiid. He averaged 5.6 points and 2.8 rebounds in the 57 games he played with the Sixers last season. However, his run was cut short because of the rise of Paul Reed who picked up playing time. While the two were rotating in the start of the season, Reed eventually took over and Tez was unable to make an impact. 

A series of unlucky events

This summer, despite his disappointing play, the 76ers re-signed him. But with his recent injury, sustained during a workout, and the roster crunch, the team has no option but to waive. However, they have promised to support him through his rehab and recovery. Charania also added that the power forward was looking to join in before the All-Star break. 

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With the opening game against Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday, the 76ers seem to be sprucing up their line-up in order to stand a chance against the Dame-Giannis duo. There is not much of an update from James Harden. The guard missed the final preseason game on Friday after skipping multiple practices past week. He also remained away from the team on Monday. Harden has been insisting that he has all trust in the front office and Daryl Morey. With his continued absence, fans are curious how to see how they are going to build the team around Embiid. And the future of Harden with the 76ers.  

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