NBA
NBA: Jackpot for James Harden
After a contrasting adventure with the Brooklyn Nets, James Harden joined the Philadelphia 76ers. Given the encouraging start with his new franchise, the double MVP has decided to extend the adventure for two seasons with a salary set at €68m. In a statement, James Harden expressed his joy at continuing his story with Philly.
For once, James Harden will spend a summer away from the rumors of departure. After a far from conclusive adventure with the Brooklyn Nets, The Beard was traded with Ben Simmons. Direction the 76ers so for Harden who discovers a new franchise in his long career. Arrived at mid-season, the former player of Rockets quickly integrated, even if he remained somewhat in the shadow of Joel Embiid. Without overdoing it, James Harden accepted his new role: not to be the superstar of the team.
James Harden made a financial effort
But James Harden knew it, his future was already going to be called into question this summer. Indeed, the double MVP had the possibility of activating his player option fixed at 46.3M€. But to extend his two-year contract with the 76ers, James Harden agreed to refuse this option. As a result, the 32-year-old leader is linked with Philly until 2024 but with €15m less. No big loss for James Harden who will still receive a salary of €68m over the two seasons. ” I had conversations with Daryl (Morey, the president of the Sixers), and I was told how we could improve and what the value of certain players was. I told Daryl to improve the squad, sign the players we needed and give me what was left. It shows how much I want to win. I want to fight for a title. That’s all that matters to me at this point. I’m willing to take less money to put us in a position to accomplish this “, explained recently James Harden to justify his choice.
“This is where I want to win”
In a statement, James Harden formalized the news and dropped a few words testifying to his joy at continuing the adventure with the 76ers. ” This is where I want to be. This is where I want to win, and I think we have what it takes to achieve that goal. Since my first day with the 76ers, the team and the fans have helped me feel at home here in Philadelphia. I’m excited to build on the foundations of last season and can’t wait to get on the pitch with the guys and start this journey. “, confided the leader All Star in remarks relayed by USA Basketball. Now, Harden will have to meet the expectations of the leaders on the floor.
Daryl Morey on James Harden: “He is one of the best players in NBA history, a future HOF, one of the best scorers and passers in history, and one of the best to make his teammates better, his mission is to win a title” pic.twitter.com/8PrAc26emH
— James Harden FR (@JHardenFR2) July 27, 2022
“I couldn’t be happier with James’ decision”
In the meantime, everyone is satisfied with the decision of James Harden. ” I couldn’t be happier with James’ decision to commit to our organization. Over the past two years, we have taken significant steps towards our ultimate goal of becoming champions. James shares our desire to win a title, and he believes being a 76er gives him the best opportunity to do so. Together we will work tirelessly to achieve our goal “, threw Doc Riversthe trainer of Philadelphia.