UPDATE: The Los Angeles Clippers and star guard James Harden are racing against the clock to finalize a trade deal ahead of the NBA trade deadline this Thursday, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania late Monday night. The Cleveland Cavaliers have emerged as a serious contender to acquire Harden, whose future remains uncertain as negotiations intensify.
Harden, 36, is currently under contract for $39.2 million this season and holds a player option worth $42.3 million for the next. Due to the nature of his contract, Harden possesses veto power over any trade, adding further complexity to the discussions. Additionally, he has a 15% trade bonus valued at approximately $2.36 million.
Missing the Clippers’ last two games, including Monday night’s matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers, Harden is absent due to what the team describes as “personal reasons.” However, his undeniable talent continues to be a driving force in the NBA. Averaging more points per game than in his last full season with Houston, Harden remains a crucial asset for the Clippers, who acquired him in a blockbuster trade with the 76ers in 2023.
Despite helping lead the Clippers to two playoff appearances, both resulting in first-round exits, Harden’s contributions have been significant. Known as one of the league’s top offensive engines, he has been remarkably durable, playing over 70 games in each of the last two seasons and on track to do the same this year.
The urgency surrounding this potential trade is palpable, as the Clippers look to bolster their roster and improve their postseason prospects. As negotiations unfold, the basketball community is eager to see if a deal can be struck before the deadline.
As the clock ticks down, fans and analysts alike are watching closely. Will the Clippers and Harden find common ground, or will this be another chapter in the saga of a player chasing that elusive championship ring? Stay tuned for the latest developments as they happen.
