James Harden Reiterates Trade Request Despite Possible ‘Path To Reconciliation’ With Sixers

James Harden expected to be traded when he opted in to his $35.6 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, but a trade has yet to materialize and he now appears more likely to remain with the franchise than be traded. Harden prefers a trade to the Los Angeles Clippers, but the two sides haven’t had serious talks.

“No,” said Ramona Shelburne when asked if Harden is any closer to being traded. “I don’t think they’re close on anything.

“James Harden has spoken with Daryl Morey since the first trade request. I think there was some cooling off period. ‘Okay, let’s let this lie and see how things play out.’ They’ve spoken again and he’s still reiterated he wants to be traded. This isn’t a demand, it’s a request. 

“The Sixers have said ‘Okay, we will try to trade you, but there’s no hurry to do this.’ I think the Sixers understand here they have the leverage here. James has picked up his option. This is an opt-in to a contract. He’s going to be a free agent after this season. At some point, he needs to play. Whether that’s in Philadelphia or elsewhere. 

“Plus, there is a sense that if they can give it some time. And he’s cool with his teammates. He’s been talking to Joel Embiid. He’s been talking to Patrick Beverley. PJ Tucker. Eventually, maybe those fences can be mended and there’s a path to reconciliation with James Harden. But, for now, he’s reiterated his trade request.”

Harden’s issues with the Sixers appears to be financial with the front office.

“I’ll just be clear with you: he felt betrayed,” added Shelburne. “He felt like he was going to get a max extension from them either last year and decided ‘Okay, I’ll leave some money on the table.’ And then this year when they were not communicating with him before free agency, because they have the largest tampering fine in league history. But generally speaking, there was no wink or not saying we’re going to take care of you. He got upset and that’s why he opted in rather than letting it play out and reach free agency.”