Does The League's Response To James Harden's Actions Differ From Damian Lillard?

Philadelphia 76ers star James Harden once again publicly expressed unhappiness with his organization. His latest outburst was aimed toward president Daryl Morey, whom he called a "liar."

But even for his comments, NBA reporter Marc Stein said Harden is unlikely to be punished by the league.

"It’s difficult to see how Harden, for his part, will face any league discipline for what he said in China," Stein said. "He publicly and pointedly criticized the highest-ranking official in the 76ers' front office, but there's no league rule that precludes him from doing so."

How does this league punishment compare to Miami Heat target Damian Lillard?

The NBA is unlikely to discipline James Harden for his comments on Daryl Morey, per @TheSteinLine

“It’s difficult to see how Harden, for his part, will face any league discipline for what he said in China. He publicly and pointedly criticized the highest-ranking official in the… pic.twitter.com/sNz9ggJYcm
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 18, 2023

Last month, Lillard's agent Aaron Goodwin reportedly told teams not to trade for the Trail Blazers star, due to his desire to play for Miami. The league released a statement condemning players' refusal to play for their traded team, per Bleacher Report's Chris Haynes:

"We have advised Goodwin and Lillard that any future comments, made privately to teams or publicly, suggesting Lillard will not fully perform the services called for under his player contract in the event of a trade will subject Lillard to discipline by the NBA. We also have advised the Players Association that any similar comments by players or their agents will be subject to discipline going forward."

So the league responses differ because of the separate situations the stars are in. While Harden did publicly call out the team president, he hasn't publicly expressed unwillingness to play under contract.

But knowing his history, this could come to fruition very soon.

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Jayden Armant is a contributor to Inside the Heat. He is a student at Howard University. He can be reached at jaydenshome14@gmail.com or follow him on TikTok @jaydenarmant.