James Harden hasn’t said much publicly about the situation that ultimately led to his being traded from the 76ers to the Clippers. Aside from an outburst in which he called Philadelphia president Daryl Morey a “liar” and stated he’d never play for an organization he’s part of again, very little in terms of specifics has come to light.
Until now.
Harden is claiming that Morey told him he would get a maximum-level contract one year after taking a $15 million pay cut to help the team, The Athletic’s Sam Amick reported Monday. When Harden didn’t get the max deal, that appeared to be the demise of his relationship with Morey.
Harden discussed several topics with Amick, but Morey was the clear headline, as the Clippers guard admitted he “sacrificed so much” in terms of his role and salary in Philly.
Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
The NBA investigated the 76ers in regard to the Harden situation, looking into whether the two potentially had a future financial agreement, which could qualify as salary cap circumvention. The league ultimately found no wrongdoing.
Harden is averaging 15.7 points, 4.4 rebounds and 6.4 assists in 14 games with the Clippers (9–10) this season.
