The James Harden trade between the Los Angeles Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers was one of the biggest blockbusters of the 2023 NBA offseason. The deal, which was finalized on October 31, 2023, saw the Clippers send Marcus Morris Sr., Robert Covington, Nicolas Batum, Kenyon Martin Jr., an unprotected 2028 first-round pick, and a protected 2026 first-round pick to the 76ers in exchange for Harden, P.J. Tucker, and Filip Petrusev.
Details of the James Harden Trade
Stats and career highlights
James Harden is a 10-time NBA All-Star and three-time NBA scoring champion. He is one of the most prolific offensive players in NBA history, averaging 24.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game over his career. Last season with the 76ers, Harden averaged 21.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game.
Previous teams and current team
Harden was drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the 2009 NBA Draft. He spent three seasons with the Thunder before being traded to the Houston Rockets in 2012. He spent eight seasons with the Rockets, leading them to the Western Conference Finals in 2015 and 2018. In January 2021, Harden was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in a four-team deal. He spent one and a half seasons with the Nets before being traded to the 76ers in February 2022.
Player profile
Harden is a 6’5″ shooting guard with a deadly scoring ability. He is one of the best pick-and-roll players in the NBA and is also a dangerous three-point shooter. Harden is also a very good passer and can create for his teammates.
Impact on the LA Clippers
Addition to the team
The acquisition of Harden gives the Clippers one of the most potent offenses in the NBA. He will join Paul George and Kawhi Leonard to form a dynamic trio that will be difficult to defend. Harden’s ability to score and create for others will make the Clippers even more dangerous on offense.
Changes in lineup and playing style
With Harden on the roster, the Clippers are likely to play a more uptempo style of basketball. Harden is at his best when he is pushing the ball in transition and creating for himself and his teammates. The Clippers may also choose to play a smaller lineup, with Harden at the shooting guard position and George or Leonard at the small forward position.
Impact on the Philadelphia 76ers
Loss of key player
The loss of Harden is a major blow to the 76ers. He was their best player last season and led them to the Eastern Conference semifinals. The 76ers will need to find a way to replace Harden’s production if they want to be contenders next season.
Potential changes in team dynamics
The loss of Harden could also lead to some changes in team dynamics for the 76ers. Harden was the team’s alpha dog last season, and his departure could create a power vacuum. The 76ers will need to find a new leader to emerge this season.
Future Implications of the Trade
Predictions for next season
The Clippers are now one of the favorites to win the NBA championship next season. With Harden, George, and Leonard, they have one of the most talented teams in the league. The 76ers, on the other hand, will need to make some adjustments if they want to be contenders again next season. They will need to find a way to replace Harden’s production and find a new leader for the team.
Implications for other teams and players
The Harden trade could also have implications for other teams and players around the NBA. For example, the trade could lead to increased demand for other star players, such as Kevin Durant and Donovan Mitchell. The trade could also lead to some teams changing their playing style in order to try to compete with the Clippers.
Conclusion
The James Harden trade was a major shakeup in the NBA offseason. The Clippers are now one of the favorites to win the championship next season, while the 76ers will need to make some adjustments if they want to be contenders again. The trade could also have implications for other teams and players around the NBA.
Overall, the James Harden trade was a win-win for both the Clippers and the 76ers.
