The Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly “determined” to retain James Harden this offseason, but there will be a negotiation for both sides as the club would prefer to sign a deal that is not a long-term max deal, per Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.
“They’re determined to keep James Harden but it’ll be a negotiation; probably not going to be just a traditional full max long-term deal that he’s been able to command throughout his career,” he said.
Harden is projected to turn down his $35.6MM player option next season and ink a much lucrative newer contract.
Wojnarowski added that the Rockets, who are a consistent segment of Harden sweepstakes, are also a team to watch. But it has to be noted that the franchise owns multiple options with their sizeable cap space heading to free agency.
The insider also pointed out that there is a possibility that Harden will be subjected to a sign-and-trade pact, though it appears to be unlikely.
“A lot can happen and I’m sure it will happen before June 30 but certainly there’s a pathway back to a contender with the Sixers,” Woj added. “I think perhaps financially for James Harden, [it] could make a lot of sense and certainly a team with Nick Nurse as their new head coach. He certainly provides a backdrop for him to continue with a contender.”
