NBA Insider Reveals Latest on James Harden's Trade Request
It has been widely reported that James Harden would like to be traded, and that the LA Clippers are the likeliest destination. Now entering mid-July, a trade doesn't seem to be close, which has led to reports about Harden potentially staying in Philadelphia. During a recent ESPN segment, NBA insider Ramona Shelburne gave on update on all of this.
"I don't think they're close on anything," Shelburne said. "James Harden has spoken to Daryl Morey since the first trade request, and I think there was a cooling off period... They've spoken again, and [Harden] still reiterated he wants to be traded. Now, this isn't a demand, it's a request. I think the Sixers have said, okay we will try to trade you, but there is no hurry to do this. I think the Sixers understand here that they have the leverage. James has picked up his option, this is an opt-in... He's going to be a free agent, so at some point he needs to play, whether that's in Philadelphia or elsewhere."
Shelburne added that there is a sense that if Philadelphia can give this some time, and allow Harden to talk to his teammates, that eventually things could be mended; however, for now, his trade requests stands.
This is a thorough update that gives insight into where all sides stand as of right now. It makes sense why this would be the case, because as Shelburne stated, Philadelphia believes they have leverage due to Harden's contract situation.
While Harden still wants to get traded, and the Clippers are still expected to be the likeliest destination, Philadelphia is not rushing into a trade that doesn't make sense for them, especially since they intend to still compete for a championship next season with Joel Embiid.
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