Declining James Harden Might Not Get Max Deal

Playoffs-Toronto Raptors at Philadelphia 76ers

Stop us if you’ve heard this before. James Harden is expected to stay. Oh wait, that has been said before, so who knows, but Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden is expected to utilize his player option this summer.

Team President Daryl Morey and the front office believe the team’s best chance at winning a title is with Harden still in South Philly. However, there is concern over whether the guy who quit on two teams in a year will ever be his former self again. The former MVP has seen a sharp decline over the course of the last year, and his max contract extension offer may not be coming down the road anymore. 

There is no telling whether Harden may still receive a shorter term deal for close to max money. What is known, however, is his close relationship with Morey and whether that has any impact on how this offseason plays out remains to be seen. As always, anything can happen, especially with Harden at this stage where it seems there is more drama to his game than efficiency. 

After beginning last season in Brooklyn before being dealt to Philly prior to the trade deadline, the 32-year-old appeared in 21 regular-season games for the Sixers, averaging 21.0 points, 10.5 assists, and 7.1 boards. Yet, he shot only 40.2% from the field and a hideous 32.6% from deep, the lowest marks of his career.

Could Harden recover from what is said to be a lingering hamstring injury? Sure, but until proven otherwise, there is no doubt he has lost a step as well as interest in the game at times. This will be a fascinating story to follow as the NBA offseason officially begins in a few weeks. 

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