Each year, NBA players work toward one ultimate goal: the NBA Championship. Certainly, there are other benefits to playing in the league, from the potential to earn hundreds of millions of dollars and grow your personal and professional brand through partnerships. But winning a ring is at the top of the concerns of almost every player.
This is especially true for James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers. The veteran guard was replaced from the Brooklyn Nets midway through last season, and although his new team advanced further in the playoffs, the 76ers still missed out on the title, losing in the second round to the Miami Heat.
Harden sees the potential around him, and is willing to part with money for a chance at the tournament.
Tayfun Coskun / Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
Harden turned down the $47.3 million player option for next season. The move gives the 76ers flexibility to improve their roster — they now have a full $10.5 million exemption and a $4.1 million exemption every two years. These two locations can be used to obtain additional veteran talents. The team can also take scoring and trading steps to try to bring in the right pieces.
By pulling out, Harden is showing a commitment to the 76ers. He is 32 years old and may not get another chance in a decade max. Instead, he will sign between one and four years at a reduced price and play alongside Joel Embiid, who has been a player candidate for the past two seasons.
It’s also an easy decision for Harden, given his career earnings. He’s only made about $272 million since entering the league in 2009.
Harden played last season in 65 games for the Nets and Sixers, averaging 22.0 points and 10.3 assists. In a bit of comedy, Harden’s ex-team is in turmoil. Even though Kyrie Irving just picked his contract, Kevin Durant has asked for a deal, so he’s likely on his way out. Meanwhile, the Nets still don’t know what they’ll get with Ben Simmons, who came from Philadelphia in exchange for Harden. Simmons sat out all last season because he didn’t feel mentally ready to get back on the field.
It looks like Harden got out of a bad situation in time. And now, he’s offering an opponent to his new team, giving them a better chance of winning a championship. We’ll see if this step pays off.
[ad_2]
