Philadelphia 76ers' reigning MVP Joel Embiid was disappointed with James Harden's decision to break up their partnership by exploring trade options.
Harden requested a trade last month amid reports he doubts his side is capable of mounting a run at the NBA championship. But despite his decision to leave, Embiid expressed hope his scoring teammate would have a change of heart and change his mind.
Speaking during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, The Sixers centre provided his candid thoughts surrounding the issue. "Disappointed," said Embiid regarding Harden's choice to leave. "But then again, I also understand it's a business. People make decisions, and I'm more appreciative of the way he's handled the situation.
"We going to be boys forever, want him to come back, obviously, so we can go out and accomplish what we want, which is to win a championship, so hopefully his mindset can be changed. But other than that, I'm just so happy to be his friend. We're close, and we've grown since he got here, and that's what I am excited about, and I'm excited to keep that friendship for the rest of our lives."
Harden picked up his $35.6million (£28m) player option, heading into his last contractual season with the Sixers. However, the veteran scorer informed the organisation of his intent to explore sign-and-trade options over opting out to re-negotiate with Philadelphia under a new deal.
According to recent reports, the Sixers organisation was not interested in giving Harden more money, signaling doubts about a long-term partnership with the combo guard. Consequently, Harden has opted to bide his time until the completion of his current deal before making a move.
The LA Clippers and Miami Heat are currently viewed as being the most likely teams to acquire the services of the versatile and skilled guard. Speculation regarding a possible return to the Houston Rockets has been put to rest following the signing of ex-Toranto Raptors guard Fred VanVleet, for a substantial three-year, $130m deal. VanVleet has also expressed his strong desire to prove himself worthy of every dollar of his new contract, making the organisation's choice a no-brainer.
According to NBA insiders, Sixers GM Daryl Morey is expected to wait for a significant offer package before trading 10-time NBA All-Star Harden. Morey has a reputation for being a shrewd businessman, as demonstrated in 2021 when it took the Sixers six months to trade Ben Simmons to the Nets in exchange for Harden and Paul Millsap.
Simmons had requested a trade and threatened to sit out until he was moved, with Morey again taking his time until an appropriate suitor offered a fair deal for both parties. While it is doubtful that Harden would follow in those footsteps, the Sixers still have to plan for the future.
The Sixers have Embiid and an emerging young guard in Tyrese Maxey on the roster, slowing closing the window on their dwindling championship window, formally known as the process. The Sixers will hope to replace Harden with another All-Star-level talent.
