Clippers Score Big: James Harden Joins in Monumental Three-Team NBA Trade
In a groundbreaking NBA trade, the Los Angeles Clippers have successfully acquired James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers, with multiple players and draft picks exchanged in a three-team deal.
The NBA landscape has shifted dramatically with the Los Angeles Clippers securing James Harden in a significant three-team trade. Harden, who had been vocal about his desire to join the Clippers since July, has seen his wish come to fruition.
In the early hours of Tuesday, a deal was struck between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Clippers, involving several players and draft picks. The 76ers have agreed to send Harden, P.J. Tucker, and Filip Petrusev to the Clippers. In exchange, the Clippers will give up Marcus Morris, Robert Covington, Nicolas Batum, K.J. Martin, and several draft picks. These include an unprotected first-round pick for 2028, two second-round picks, and a 2029 pick swap, along with a protected 2026 first-round pick from the Oklahoma City Thunder, as reported by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. Additionally, the Clippers will exchange a first-round pick swap for 2027 with Oklahoma City. As part of this transaction, the Sixers will also release Danny Green.
This trade represents a significant gain for Daryl Morey and the 76ers, considering Harden's dissatisfaction and the lack of interest from other teams. It provides the Sixers with an estimated $65 million in cap space for the next offseason and potential avenues to acquire a third star to play alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
The Clippers, on the other hand, are intensifying their championship aspirations, uniting a formidable lineup with Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, Russell Westbrook, and now James Harden. Notably, Harden and Westbrook have previously played together for the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets.
The contract situation for the Clippers' star trio is crucial, with Leonard, George, and Harden all potentially becoming unrestricted free agents after this season. Both Leonard and George have player options worth $48,787,676, while Harden is on an expiring contract.
Harden, a former MVP and 10-time All-Star, brings remarkable statistics to the Clippers, averaging 21 points, 10.7 assists, 6.1 rebounds, and impressive shooting percentages last season. His addition marks a significant moment for the Clippers as they gear up for a strong championship run.
