Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Philadelphia 76ers have turned out to be one of the biggest disappointments of this year. Although the roster boasts superstars like Joel Embiid and James Harden, the Sixers failed to make it past the second round of the 2022-23 NBA playoffs. Following their humiliating and heartbreaking game 7 loss at the hands of Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics, the team front office was forced to play its hand and has taken a major decision.

According to reports, the Sixers have sacked their head coach Doc Rivers and this decision might have just been influenced by Harden.

Sixers sack Doc Rivers amidst Harden’s uncertainty

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The Philadelphia 76ers have failed to make it past the second round of the playoffs for the second consecutive season. Despite having an impressive late-season run, the team failed to perform when it mattered the most.

via Imago

As a result of two shocking playoff exits, Doc Rivers has been sacked according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN. This comes just days after the Celtics beat the Sixers 112-88.

Jayson Tatum, who was one of the MVP frontrunners alongside Embiid, had 51 points for the night! This happens to be the most points scored in game 7. While the entire team struggled, Harden faced the brunt of the fans and media.

He had a dismal shooting night and Embiid didn’t look like his usual self. Interestingly, there have been reports which suggest that Harden might leave the Sixers soon.

READ MORE: NBA Legend, Who Left USA for $1,000,000, Attempts to Lure James Harden to Taiwan in Viral Video as Trade Rumors Gain Momentum

Just a few hours after the game 7 loss, it was reported that the 2018 MVP is serious about returning back to the Houston Rockets. There have, however, been no concrete reports as of yet.

Rivers’ sacking might tie down James Harden

10-time NBA All-Star Harden and Doc Rivers did not have the best of relationships. Ramona Shelburne of ESPN reported, “I think behind the scenes, from what I’m told, one person said ‘It would be hard for me to see James wanting to come back to play for Doc again.'”

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Harden is a free agent in the offseason. Considering that the Sixers have already sacked Doc Rivers, The Beard might just sign the contract extension. His interest in returning back to the Houston Rockets, however, might pose to be a roadblock.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

WATCH THIS STORY: Jack Harlow and 2x Academy Winner rally behind Jayson Tatum after historic Celtics night   

Do you think James Harden will play for the Philadelphia 76ers? Let us know in the comments below.