Sixers Veteran Praises James Harden’s Professionalism

James Harden has remained a professional throughout his trade saga with the Sixers so far this preseason.

When James Harden alerted the Philadelphia 76ers of his eventual arrival in Colorado for training camp ahead of day two, the national media warned everybody that the fireworks were coming.

Considering the Sixers’ trade saga with Harden is not the ten-time All-Star’s first rodeo in this situation, many expected him to take a similar approach as he’s done in the past.

Harden’s first practice with the Sixers came and went without any issues. Day two went the same. At this point, over a week since Harden returned to the 76ers, he’s been taking a business-as-usual approach, simply going to work and playing ball while still hoping for a trade.

Recently, 76ers veteran Patrick Beverley praised his teammate for Harden’s professionalism amidst the drama.

“He was at training camp, he was great,” Beverley said on the Pat Bev Podcast. “He was in shape, been playing his [expletive] off. He’s been leading. He’s been vocal. There hasn’t been a distraction there at all. Even with the media [and how they] want to present it to be like he’s coming here and making everything tough. He’s been a professional about everything and going about his business the right way. It’s good for players. I was happy to see him. I know young players, guys who never met him, were stoked to see him. He’s been in practice. It’s been great… It’s been real good.”

As Harden promised to league officials back in the summer, he’s been willing to fulfill his contractual duties as the Sixers can’t find a trade partner. While the Los Angeles Clippers reportedly remain interested in acquiring Harden, neither side has shown a willingness to change their expectations in negotiations.

So far, Harden has yet to suit up for the Sixers during the 2023 preseason. With two games in the bag, Sixers head coach Nick Nurse allowed Harden to have the night off for both matchups against the Boston Celtics. While the active trade requests suggest that might be the reason why Harden hasn’t played in a game just yet, the Sixers’ decision to hold out Joel Embiid for both matchups proves their approach for Harden may just be a matter of giving the seasoned veteran some rest.

Regardless of what the plan is for Harden in the preseason, the All-Star has taken an unexpected approach to his preparation for the 2023-2024 NBA season. It’s unclear if this version of Harden will stick around the entire time until the situation is resolved, but the Sixers seem grateful for Harden’s professional approach at this point in the offseason.