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Image Credits: IMAGO
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/nba-1200x628-imago-final-14-13.png?width=600)
via Imago
Image Credits: IMAGO
While NBA athletes get a ton of respect, some of them are more polarizing than others. The reactions to them can be very diverse. However, no player has gone to the top of the list quite as quickly as James Harden. Whether it be what many consider underhanded tactics or his recent comments towards GM Daryl Morey, the former MVP is as famous as he is infamous. As a result, his activities have garnered a lot of attention from NBA legends. Recently, Shaquille O’Neal spoke out about how he sees the entire scenario unfolding.
According to the 7-footer, there are only 2 outcomes to the entire situation.
Shaquille O’Neal breaks down the James Harden puzzle
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While it began like a simple trade request, the Harden-Philadelphia 76ers saga has evolved into so much more. Last year, James took a pay cut during his extension with a promise for a heftier sum the following year. However, no such deal came through to start the season.
As a result, the trade demand from the Beard. But, the story didn’t end there. Harden, during a brand new drink release in China, and then at a camp of his own, had some incendiary remarks for his GM in Philly and through his days with the Houston Rockets.
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-05-02T023147Z_1588539434_MT1USATODAY20577003_RTRMADP_3_NBA-PLAYOFFS-PHILADELPHIA-76ERS-AT-BOSTON-CELTICS.jpg?width=150&blur=15)
USA Today via Reuters
May 1, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden (1) reacts after a basket in the second half during game one of the 2023 NBA playoffs against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Even though his comments left an air of mystery, many fans and players, were firmly on his side. Some, however, were on the opposite end owing to how similar the end to his stints in Houston and with the Brooklyn Nets were. Shaq, who’s had a history of playing for multiple teams, offered his opinion on the matter.
Watch This Story: “Is It Too Late”: James Harden Burns All Bridges With A 4-Word Bomb On Relationship With Daryl Morey & 76ers
Speaking to Adrian Hernandez, the Los Angeles Lakers legend laid out his point of view. “Obviously, it’s personal. But, I don’t know James like that. I don’t know Daryl Morey like that…That’s the only two ways this thing can unfold…Either they’re gonna have a meeting in Philly and apologize or oh, I’m a liar, okay well I’m about to send you to any team that you don’t want to be in.”
However, the entire scenario reached a fever pitch due to the $165 million worth Harden’s comments in China.
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Harden goes to China
Even though the initial reports made it clear that the former MVP’s trade was due at any moment, all talks fell through. Eventually, the thought of a trade became unclear with the 76ers’ attitude remaining unclear. As a result, James took the matter into his own hands.
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Speaking at an event in China, the left-handed maestro let loose his feelings for Daryl. “Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of,” were Harden’s exact words. After reiterating the same sentiment twice, it seems unlikely that the Beard returns to the city of Brotherly Love.
What do you think will happen in the Harden trade saga? Do you agree with Shaquille O’Neal? Let us know in the comments.