This NBA off-season had a few of the biggest dramas of all time, taking all facets of the game into consideration. The future of ‘under-prepared’ James Harden with the Philadelphia 76ers was one such area of concern for months. Despite the controversies, he might begin the season against the Milwaukee Bucks after ending their 16-game streak.
The 34-year-old stopped the Bucks from having a shot at history. Following that, Harden may start the season against the team with a cloud of uncertainties over his future.
The unexpected twist in the future of James Harden
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Jake Fischer, a senior NBA reporter, recently hinted at James Harden’s extended in the city of Philadelphia. His preferred team, the Los Angeles Clippers, has failed to find a trade solution ahead of the upcoming season. Thus, the point guard might feature in the squad for the Eastern Conference side in their opening game.
Being told by one source tonight that with Clippers still unwilling to include Terance Mann or additional draft capital during talks with Philadelphia in recent days, it?s increasingly likely James Harden will be on the Sixers? roster to start the season next Thursday vs. Bucks. https://t.co/GnP47kg9BR
? Jake Fischer (@JakeLFischer) October 18, 2023
The 10-time All-Star would enter the match with a lack of preparation, as he only took part in one out of fourteen scrimmages. So, his fitness could become a source of worry for the organization against the Milwaukee team. Harden has had an interesting relationship with the next opposition, as he even ended their winning streak this year.
Dominating in all the areas of the game, James came into his own against the Bucks as the 76ers won 133-130. Leading the team in points, rebounds, and assists, he recorded 38-9-10 in that match. The 2018 MVP ran the show as the hosts brushed aside the visitors in front of over eighteen thousand crowd.
This time around, the chances of history repeating look improbable as his squad has started to rely on other options. As for James, there is still no clear answer about his future as one question looms in the corner.
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What’s next for The Beard?
He has been vocal about his willingness to leave the organization for quite some time now. Since a miserable end to the last season, nothing has been going in the 76ers’ way. Thus, a change for both parties is needed at this point.
The Clippers are interested in landing the 6’5 guard to the LA. But to do so, the franchise does not want to give up more than necessary. Harden’s age and relationship with his last few teams might have also played a part in that decision.
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Amidst the uncertainties, the talks are still ongoing. Can the Clippers prove to be the turning point for James at this stage? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.