The Philadelphia 76ers are a hotbed of drama right now. Despite rising in the Eastern Conference, the situation is tense in the team. Joel Embiid is in a tough spot with the ongoing James Harden fiasco. Over the past few years, the Sixers have traded away several young players who have gone on to star elsewhere. One of the most notable examples is Ben Simmons. He showed flashes of brilliance during his time in Philly, but he was also inconsistent and struggled to perform in the playoffs.
In the 2021-22 season, Simmons refused to play for the Sixers after he was criticized by fans and media following a playoff loss. He was eventually traded to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for James Harden. However, the situation is even grim for Philly. James Harden has refused to join the training camp, which is starting in a few days. On top of that, Philly owes Harden a whopping $9,000,000.?
Philly’s mishap with Ben Simmons
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Ben Simmons, too, had a tumultuous relationship with the team. Simmons was eventually traded to the Brooklyn Nets in a deal that brought James Harden to Philadelphia. However, the 76ers repeated the same mistake they made with Simmons when dealing with Harden?s contract.
Harden, like Simmons, has a unique payment structure in his contract. He was owed 25 percent of his salary on July 1st, and the next payment is due on October 1st. This structure, while not uncommon in the NBA, has proven to be a thorn in the side of the 76ers.
Philly is set to lose $9 Million to Harden
The 76ers now owe James Harden the second $9 million installment of his salary. This comes after the team suffered public humiliation over Harden?s behavior. Harden recently had a party and had the club holding up ?Daryl Morey is a liar? signs.?
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The NBA?s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) allows the 76ers to wait until Monday to pay Harden the 25 percent installment, which amounts to approximately $9 million. This situation has not only cost the 76ers financially but amidst the Harden drama, it adds to the humiliation.?
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Harden is expected to report and the training camp despite his wish to be traded as soon as possible. That puts Embiid in a tough spot as the NBA In-season is approaching. All the roster teams will be putting up their best show and if Philly cannot resolve Harden drama, it is likely to impact the whole team.
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