Will James Harden Skip Philadelphia 76ers' Camp?

James Harden’s hopes to be traded away by the Philadelphia 76ers haven’t changed the pace of negotiations at this point in time. While the Sixers have had

James Harden’s hopes to be traded away by the Philadelphia 76ers haven’t changed the pace of negotiations at this point in time. While the Sixers have had discussions about moving the ten-time All-Star ahead of the 2023-2024 season, Harden remains on Philadelphia’s roster.

There is a likely scenario where Harden is still on board with the Sixers when the training camp begins. If that’s indeed the case, it sounds like Harden is willing to participate rather than holding out.

According to Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer, Harden is “expected at this point to report to training camp.” While Fischer adds that Harden “still intends” to play for another team next season, specifically the Los Angeles Clippers, it doesn’t seem like he’s going to force the Sixers’ hand right away if he’s still on the roster come October.

“Let’s be clear: No matter the Sixers’ wishes, Harden still intends to play for the Clippers during the 2022-23 season, league sources told Yahoo Sports. Since the beginning of this subplot, Harden and his representation opted in to pinpoint Los Angeles as his next destination and have maintained a confidence he will ultimately join the Clippers. There has been no substantial trade conversation for Philadelphia regarding Harden and any other team, sources said, as rival front offices have been briefed on Harden’s unwavering focus on the Clippers and the Clippers alone. The 76ers have held talks with other teams and have established their high asking price for the league's assist leader.”

Right now, the Sixers have a high asking price for the ten-time All-Star, who doesn’t have a crowded market. On Tuesday, Sixers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey explained that the Sixers want a high-caliber player in return for Harden. Or, they want enough draft picks that could then be flipped into a high-caliber player to pair alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.

The Sixers are no strangers to dealing with trade demands and holdouts. Just two seasons ago, they dealt with Ben Simmons, who wanted a change of scenery and was willing to sit out until he got one. While the initial assumption was that Harden would do the same if the Sixers didn’t get him on the Clippers before camp, it seems he’s not willing to take it that far just yet.