'No Motivation' for New York Knicks, James Harden Trade
The New York Knicks are not interested in James Harden on a one-year rental according to ESPN Insider Adrian Wojnarowski.
"The Knicks talked to the Sixers early on in this thing, but there’s no great motivation for the Knicks to do a one-year rental on James Harden," Wojnarowski said. "Anybody who's bringing Harden in, you're really viewing this as a one-year rental."
Harden has asked for a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason after picking up his player option to stay with the team. He is owed $35.6 million for the 2023-24 NBA season.
Harden has demanded a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers (USA Today Sports)
Last season with the 76ers, Harden averaged 21.0 points, 10.7 assists, and 6.1 rebounds while shooting 44.1 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from deep. Despite his good performance, he was not named an All-Star for the first time in 11 seasons.
The 34-year-old guard has been one of the most decorated players of his generation. He won the Most Valuable Player award in 2017-18 and was named to the NBA's 75th Anniversary team in 2021.
Harden has asked for three trades in the last three seasons, which is unprecedented in the league. While he does add value to whatever team he plays for as he is still an All-Star level player, many are avoiding trading for him because he may not be worth the drama at the price they would be paying for him. ESPN's Ramona Shelburne reported that the Knicks were involved in the initial discussions about Harden's future along with the Los Angeles Clippers but neither was willing to meet Philadelphia's asking price.
Harden is expected to report to camp with Philadelphia despite his trade request.
