James Harden has been the center of attention since his trade request. One of the most prevalent conversations this offseason has been about the Philadelphia 76ers star guard’s next destination. Although nothing has been made official yet, the race to land the 10 time All Star has been in full swing.
James Harden has had a Hall of Fame career over the years. The 33-year-old earned a spot in the NBA Top 75 list for his commendable achievements throughout his career. He also had another terrific season in the Sixers uniform in 2022-23, winning his second assists title. However, his quest for an NBA championship prompted him to ask out of the franchise. Several teams have been in contention to land the former MVP but one franchise emerged as the strongest contender. However, their recent statement has angered the NBA world.
James Harden gets called out by $3.9B worth franchise
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James Harden is no stranger to criticism. Over the course of his 14 year career, Harden has dealt with criticism every step of the way. After all, it is something that comes with being a highly accomplished player in the NBA. However, Harden’s preferred trade destination may have gone too far.
Harden has been among rampant trade rumors lately. However, the favorites to land the 10 time All Star were rumored to be the Los Angeles Clippers. Fans believed that the Clippers were the most suited destination for Harden, given the presence of their star duo, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. However, the $3.9B worth franchise does not seem to show the same interest in Harden.
Recent information revealed that the Clippers were non-serious in trade talks for The Beard. “Even the Clippers, Harden’s preferred destination, have been fairly unserious about what they’re willing to give up in order to acquire him,” said Kyle Neubeck. “The prevailing sentiment seems to be that Harden is still valued, but on the team’s terms, which is a shift from the franchise-defining clout Harden had at his peak.”
After the Clippers claimed that Harden does not generate “franchise-defining clout”, the fans were enraged. They immediately took to Twitter to express their anger.
Fans react to Clippers’ information
James Harden had one of the most spectacular prime years in NBA history. In his prime, The Beard had the world in disbelief of his abilities. Harden cemented his position as one of the greatest scorers of all time during this time in his career. He won the MVP award in 2018, also bagging three consecutive scoring titles at his peak. However, he has been serving as more of a playmaking point guard nowadays.
Despite the end of his prime years, Harden has not lost a step. His assists last season proved that he does not have to be in his prime to be effective on the court. However, the Clippers made some undermining statements about the 33 year old. This enraged the fans who made their opinions heard on Twitter
Some fans called this an insult to the future Hall of Famer:
Does Harden really want to go to a team that doesn’t value him enough to give up one first round draft pick or a role player?
That’s insulting to him— Lot’s Wife (@analleline) July 28, 2023
Fans also took jabs at the Clippers franchise:
Clippers are unserious NBA franchise
— Kevin Durant Phoenix Suns NBA player (parody) (@KDtrey5Five) July 28, 2023
Users also claimed that Harden will have to stay with the Sixers despite his disinterest:
Harden is going to stay wit philly whether he likes it or not sadly
— Jayden. (@GAMERJAYG_) July 29, 2023
However, some fans defended the Clippers’ stand on the 33 year old:
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Why would they give a serious offer when they barely have any assets and he only wants to be traded to them? No other team would try to trade for him knowing he has the fat suit ready
— Andy (@AndyJPuente) July 28, 2023
Fans had their say about the recent information about the Clippers front office. However, Harden may still seem keen on joining the franchise.
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After a disappointing end to his stint with the Sixers, Harden would wish to join a team that gives him the strongest chances of making a championship run. The Clippers may seem as a strong contender for the championship but they have expressed their unserios attitude towards signing Harden. As a result, the question of his next destination still hangs in the balance.