Sixers’ James Harden intends to decline player option, seek long-term deal as free agent: report

Sixers’ James Harden intends to decline player option, seek long-term deal as free agent: report

ten times NBA All-Star James Harden could be on the move again.

Harden intends to decline his $35.6 million player option with the Philadelphia 76ers to secure a long-term deal as an unrestricted free agent, according to Bleacher Report.

James Harden (1) and Joel Embiid (21) of the Philadelphia 76ers talk during the third quarter of Game 6 of the 2023 Eastern Conference semifinals at the Wells Fargo Center on May 11, 2023 in Philadelphia. (Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Harden will seek a four-year contract after taking a pay cut last season for Philadelphia to build the surrounding roster, according to the report.

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While Harden’s former team, the houston rocketsRumored to be a team of interest, Harden will “only entertain suitors who come up with a competitive roster and the freedom of basketball to star himself.”

The Rockets tied for the worst record in the Western Conference last season, finishing the year 22-60.

The Sixers are coming off a third consecutive loss in the second round of the NBA Playoffslosing to the Boston Celtics in Game 7 and failing to reach the conference finals for the 22nd straight year.

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While Harden had two wonderful games in the series, he struggled in games six and seven, shooting 7-for-27 combined as the Sixers blew a 3-2 series lead.

James Harden shoots a free throw in the NBA Playoffs

James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers prepares to shoot a free throw against the Boston Celtics during Game 6 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference semifinals on May 11, 2023 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia (Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)

Philly made a big move on Tuesday, fire head coach Doc Rivers after three seasons.

“Doc is one of the most successful coaches in NBA history, a future Hall of Famer and someone I respect immensely,” 76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey said in a statement. “We are grateful for all he did in his three seasons here and we thank him for the significant impact he has made on our franchise. After having the opportunity to reflect on our season, we decided that certain changes are necessary to further our goals of racing.” for a championship.”

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Rivers thanked the City of Philadelphia and the organization in a social media post after the news broke.

Doc Rivers practices against the Boston Celtics

Philadelphia 76ers head coach Doc Rivers reacts against the Boston Celtics in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals at the Wells Fargo Center on May 5, 2023 in Philadelphia. (Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

“I really enjoyed my time in Philly, what a Big cityRivers said. “I want to start by thanking my staff, players and ownership group for their support. We did a lot in a short time. I would also like to thank the fans of the 76ers.

“Wow…you guys are tough, and I think you’ve learned that I am too. I love your commitment to the city and your teams, never lose that. I wanted, as much as you did, to bring another championship.” to Philadelphia. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to lead, learn and love this great city.”

By Jacob Wilson

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