Here's How Boston Celtics Could Acquire James Harden

This hypothetical trade scenario sends Malcolm Brogdon and Al Horford to the Philadelphia 76ers.

David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

On Tuesday, the NBA fined James Harden $100,000 for threatening not to perform his contractual obligations unless traded to another team. If the Philadelphia 76ers pursue a trade partner for Harden, the Boston Celtics could offer a package of Malcolm Brogdon and Al Horford.

Starting from the Celtics’ perspective, Harden is a top performer. Last season, the 10-time NBA All-Star averaged 21 points and a league-high 10.7 assists per game.

The main concerns with the 33-year-old is his perceived adverse impact on team chemistry and consistent display of unprofessional antics when his demands aren’t met. This isn’t a major issue in the short-term, however, since his contract expires in 2024.

The Celtics would boast a potential starting lineup of Harden, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, Kristaps Porzingis, and Robert Williams III. Considering Boston’s three Eastern Conference Finals appearances over four years, Harden may be more willing to embrace their system over those of his previous destinations.

On the other side of the deal, Brogdon and Horford could be meaningful pieces to the Joel Embiid-led 76ers. Their acquisition limits fallout from the inevitable departure of Harden, who’s trade value will continually deteriorate over the next year.

Based on his 67 regular-season appearances with the Celtics, Brodgon averaged 14.9 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists over 26 minutes. Horford, a former 76er, averaged 9.8 points and 6.2 rebounds per game on 44.6-percent shooting from beyond the arc last season.

Overall, the Celtics would acquire another All-Star level player at a discounted rate. Meanwhile, the 76ers would strengthen their lineup without risking a sabotaged season.

This trade idea serves as a scenario to consider if the Celtics decide to pursue Harden, not an endorsement of the decision to do so.

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