Trades in the NBA always have emotional consequences. Such was the case with ex-MVP James Harden as well. After an ugly split with the Philadelphia 76ers, a horrifying start with the Los Angeles Clippers, and a disappointing playoff run later, The Beard is still going strong. However, the 10x All-Star recently broke the silence on his mental health months after the drama that unfolded.

Harden had a significant rift with the 76ers’ President of Basketball Operations, Daryl Morey, before heading to LA and teaming up with Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Now, Morey is threatening to steal George from the Clippers, adding to Harden’s misery. However, the Clippers’ point guard seems undeterred by the news. In a recent interview with HoopsHype in his Adidas camp, the 34-year-old revealed his mental state after a tumultuous season. He also dropped a cryptic note on his 76ers exit and Morey drama. “I think we all go through certain, you know, times in our life where you want something, you feel like you want something, and it hasn’t just happened for you” said Harden.

He further added “But I think for whoever’s felt like that or is going to feel like this, I think you just gotta keep pushing and keep staying at it. I guess the only option you have, and for me, I think, mentally, just staying strong, making sure I know exactly what I want to keep doing until I can’t do it anymore.” The Clippers star showed resilience despite the obstacles he dealt with in the past few years.

Harden has dealt with adversity with incredible professionalism and confidence over the years. But can he handle the challenges the upcoming season may pose?

What can James Harden’s upcoming season look like?

James Harden is facing a significant threat of losing his teammate Paul George to the team he recently split from. The Philadelphia 76ers look hungry for a deep playoff run and possibly a championship, and George fits into their plan like a piece of a puzzle. However, the 9x All-Star’s exit would complicate things more than ever for the LA side. Will this force another trade request from Harden?

The Clippers recently signed their head coach, Ty Lue, to a whopping $70 million extension. George is crucial to maintaining the stability in Lue’s presence. Most reports suggest George will sign an extension to continue his Clippers stint. However, Steve Ballmer and his team are prepared for the worst. The Clippers have already begun their search for a wide range of players that they may acquire to salvage George’s exit. Kyle Lowry and Chris Paul are two of the superstar guards that the Clippers have expressed interest in. Without considering the impact this may have on ex-MVP Russell Westbrook, Ballmer and co have shown increasing interest in guards this offseason.

The Clippers face an uncertain future, and Harden is at the center of it all. However, his mental resilience seems to be the key to dealing with such adversity. But will George’s exit mark the melting point for Harden’s patience? Can the Clippers solve this situation in time? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Furthermore, watch out for what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, shared about the marketing genius in the following video.