The controversies around the player trade situations marked the recent NBA off-season. One such instance was the drama around the potential departure of James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers. The superstar recently talked about that scenario as he delved deep into the lies and truths after expressing his loyalty.
His words shed light on the reality of the biggest trade fiasco in the NBA. It showcased how instantaneous decisions could overthrow the results of past sacrifices.
What did James Harden say?
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Following his move to the Los Angeles Clippers, James opened up about what went on at the 76ers in the past few months. Describing the fans and the teammates of Philly as “great,”?he discussed how he took a pay cut to join them. The 2018 MVP took “$26 million less to be able to sign and make the team better, organization better”.
James Harden when it went wrong in Philly:
?I just want to win at the highest level… I’m leaving Brooklyn & thinking I’m going to retire as a Sixer. And the front office had other plans. They didn’t want me, & it is that simple… I’m happy I’m here.?pic.twitter.com/yFm4MbmxMO
? Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) November 2, 2023
“Changing my role,” he added as he continued to shed spotlight on his sacrifices for his previous franchise. The 34-year-old made those decisions to “win at the highest level” and “retire as a Sixer” one day, eventually. He dived deep into the matter as he declared, “The front office had other plans. They didn’t want me. It’s that simple”.
Yet, the 10-time All-Star refused to call out names in public as he highlighted, “There are more details…I can’t talk about”.?Rather, he held onto his beliefs and values as an individual, saying, “I’m not the type to go back and forth”.?So, Harden focused on the future with his new organization, mentioning, “I’m happy I’m here”.
He continued the discussion with displays of ambition for himself as well as for the Clippers. With James staying invested in the project, the LA side has a lot to look forward to.
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Can he turn it around for the Los Angeles Clippers?
The start has not been magnificent for James. On his first experience from the courtside, his team lost to their local rivals. The Clippers have also struggled in the past few seasons to win in the big moments, especially in the playoffs.
Thus, James would hope to turn it around since his debut performance for the franchise. With a new big three in place, the supporters would be hoping to see a change of fortune. The hopes and dreams of one part of the City of Angels depend on the latest recruit.
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Can James make it happen for his new team? Let us know in the comments.