?Harden Out Here Acting Like He Took a Massive Pay Cut?: $68.6 Million Decision Ended Up Being Costly for James Harden Among NBA Fans

James Harden is arguably one of the most lethal offensive weapons of this generation. He would run circles around most of the defenses in the league. However, his stock has dipped ever since leaving the Houston Rockets in 2021. Harden’s numbers over the past couple of years are a letdown from his MVP-caliber seasons with the Rockets.

Nonetheless, Harden is still an All-Star and can make a huge difference to the team. The 10-time All-Star took a pay cut while renewing his contract with the Philadelphia 76ers to give the franchise more flexibility in free agency. Earlier, he opted out of the final year of his contract, which was worth $47 million.

James Harden signed a two-year contract, including a player option, which resulted in the 34-year-old losing $15 million. The sole focus is now on winning a championship that will massively boost his legacy. Consequently, his decision allowed the Philadelphia 76ers to maneuver free agency with some wiggle room.

READ MORE: Bayern Munich Star Robert Lewandowski?s 3-Word Reaction After Thomas Muller Uses Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen Meme to Bid Farewell

The new contract is worth $68.6 million over two years. ?I had conversations with Daryl [Morey], and it was explained how we could get better and what the market value was for certain players. I told Daryl to improve the roster, sign who we needed to sign and give me whatever is left over”, he revealed his conversation with the 76ers’ president of basketball operations

The Philadelphia 76ers had a disappointing season

The 76ers acquired Harden via?trade in February from the Brooklyn Nets. As the franchise superstar?Joel Embiid was having a career year, the 76ers were expected to make a deep run in the playoffs. Meanwhile, they finished the season with a 51-31 record and the 4th seed in a competitive Eastern Conference.

The playoffs started well for them as they defeated the Toronto Raptors in six games in the first round. However, their season ended in the Conference Semis yet again. This time they were beaten in six games by the Miami Heat after a couple of disappointing performances from Harden.

Fans gave their opinions on James Harden

Even though Harden’s decision was with the team’s best interest in mind, fans didn’t seem to feel the same way. They believe he is still going to earn more than what most players in the league earn.

WATCH THIS STORY: NBA stars who dated the Kardashian sisters

What are your thoughts on James Harden’s new contract? Let us know in the comments.