3 Teams Crazy Enough to Trade for James Harden

Dec 23, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden (1) shields the ball from Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul George (13) in the first quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 23, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden (1) shields the ball from Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul George (13) in the first quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports /
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James Harden is turning up the pressure on the 76ers to trade him. His brazen comments about GM Daryl Morey have likely pushed this situation into unsalvageable territory, and they also sent a message to the rest of the league that he wants someone to save him.

Given Harden’s long history of trade requests, it’s no surprise most NBA teams are wary of acquiring the former MVP. That being said, there’s a few franchises that would take the risk in order to give their rosters a boost.

With that in mind, here are three teams crazy enough to trade for Harden.

James Harden Trade Destinations

1. Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers are the most obvious candidate to still go after Harden. He’s made it clear all offseason that he wants to be in L.A., though his request has yet to be fulfilled.

The Sixers have, at the very least, been happy to discuss a deal with the Clips, making several attempts to hammer out a trade. That means the groundwork is already laid and both sides know what the other is looking for. Now it’s all about finding the price that makes these teams agree.

The Clippers certainly have reasons to keep pursuing the 10-time All-Star. Their offense would hit another level by adding the equally deadly playmaker and scorer to a lineup that already features the likes of Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. Injuries have plagued both studs in recent years, so having someone who can truly carry this unit for any stretch is crucial.

The window for a George-Leonard duo to win a title may also be closing with both players’ futures uncertain. Bringing Harden in could finally help deliver the title owner Steve Ballmer has been so desperate to earn.

Los Angeles has the right amount of big contracts and promising pieces to put together a compelling trade offer. The fact Harden’s made his desire to play for the Clippers public also means other teams likely won’t chase him too hard.

That reality is what makes the Clips the clear frontrunners to eventually land Harden.