The LA Clippers have been extra lively of their pursuit of James Harden because the common season approaches. Nonetheless, a deal could or could not get accomplished as a result of haggling over the belongings. The Sixers need Terrance Mann and two first-round picks, whereas the Clippers have reportedly drawn a line by way of what they’ll supply.
For Philly, buying and selling Harden isn’t so simple as simply getting one of the best deal. They plan to have main cap house in the summertime of 2024 to retool round MVP Joel Embiid, which means that they don’t need to take again long-term wage. Fortunately for the Clippers, they’ll match salaries in a Harden deal by buying and selling the expiring salaries of Marcus Morris, Nic Batum, and Robert Covington, in addition to two firsts. Nonetheless, none of these gamers assist the Sixers win now, even when these picks would assist the Sixers transfer on from their second-best participant in the long term.
The Clippers enjoying hardball with Philadelphia may put the Sixers in a bind.
Taking a step again after shifting Harden is probably going inevitable, however taking the Clippers’ presumed supply would primarily imply that the Sixers can be punting on this season. With Harden making use of inside stress and no different apparent commerce companions, they in all probability don’t have a lot of a selection. Additionally, it’s not just like the Sixers would be capable to compete with the Milwaukee Bucks and Boston Celtics this season.
All that makes it look like a good move for the Clippers to cap their supply and put the ball in Philly’s court docket. They’ll decline the supply, which might power them to take care of Harden and his rising antics.
That would not solely tank his worth additional but in addition doubtlessly flip Embiid towards the crew. Or, they might take the Clippers’ supply, presumably together with the 2 first-round picks, do their finest to compete this 12 months, and attempt to reload subsequent summer season.
That deal isn’t with out threat for the Clippers, who’re already out of fairly just a few draft belongings from the Paul George commerce, and giving up two extra for an growing old star may blow up of their face. Alternatively, regardless of Harden dropping off from his peak, he’s nonetheless an all-star caliber participant and desires to play in LA.
In the event that they have been to commerce for him, he would in all probability be on his finest conduct, particularly since he’d be enjoying with two different stars, Kawhi Leonard and George, in addition to former teammate Russell Westbrook. Thus, the Clippers are proper to pursue Harden and their take-it-or-leave-it technique may guarantee they don’t overpay for him.
Revealed on 10/10/2023 at 12:30 PM EDTLast up to date on 10/10/2023 at 6:48 AM EDT