Author: Monojit Mandal
The Los Angeles Clippers have formally withdrawn from trade talks involving NBA star James Harden, putting an end to rumors of a possible acquisition. This decision was made after lengthy discussions with the Philadelphia 76ers failed to produce a mutually beneficial agreement.
Renowned ESPN writer Brian Windhorst has revealed that the Clippers have dropped out of discussions over the deal. Windhorst said that the Clippers’ management has finally decided to abandon the search for the best player. He did, however, leave the door open for future talks, hinting that the team’s interest could be rekindled in the middle of the season.
“The Clippers tried to negotiate a trade for James Harden, but it didn’t work out,” Windhorst said. “And according to what I understand, it was the Clippers’ management who said, ‘OK, no deal here. Let’s move on”. Although I believe the franchise could launch a new attack in the middle of the season. But for now, I believe this is the path the Clippers will follow.“
According to Kyle Neubeck of The Philly Voice, one of the main sticking points in the negotiations was the Clippers’ refusal to include point guard Terance Mann in the deal. According to Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, the Clippers were interested in getting Harden, but couldn’t part with Mann because of the significant assets, including first-round picks, that were already on the table.
Harden’s desire for a trade became clear at the start of the offseason, mainly due to his dissatisfaction with the 76ers organization. According to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, Harden felt insulted, especially given his willingness to sign a smaller contract than the maximum in the past to meet the team’s budget space requirements.
“James believed, for a start, that he would receive greater consideration after his decisions last year,” added Amick. After all, he had to sign for less than the maximum amount so that the team could sign PJ Tucker and Danuel House. He expected to be “rewarded“. Everyone kept quiet when the free agency approached. Nobody went looking for him.”
Tensions escalated further last month when Harden publicly reprimanded franchise president Daryl Morey, accusing him of dishonesty. In addition, Harden stated unequivocally that he would not be part of any organization managed by Morey, thus ending his long-standing association that began with the Houston Rockets.