Breaking: Sixers Send Harden to Los Angeles

The LA Clippers pulled off a jaw-dropping trade on Monday night, acquiring 10-time All-Star guard James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers. In a deal that shook the NBA, the 76ers sent Harden, P.J. Tucker, and Filip Petrusev to the Clippers in exchange for Marcus Morris, Robert Covington, Nic Batum, KJ Martin, a 2028 unprotected first-round pick, two second-round picks, a 2029 pick swap, and an additional first-round pick routed through a third team.

Harden Joins Star-Studded Clippers

The Clippers, in a masterstroke, added Harden to their roster, forming a formidable trio with All-Star forwards Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Additionally, they reunited Harden with his former teammate Russell Westbrook, who previously played alongside him on the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets.


Long-Awaited Deal Finalized

This trade has been the subject of discussions between the Clippers and 76ers since July, finally culminating in an agreement on Monday night. As for the details, the Clippers and a third team were still ironing them out late into the night. Meanwhile, the 76ers made room for the trade by waiving veteran guard Danny Green.

76ers Eyeing Future Success

The 76ers had been adamant about obtaining two first-round picks in a Harden trade. With the addition of second-round picks and a pick swap, they believe they now have the assets to pursue another high-level guard to complement MVP Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey this season. On the Clippers' side, they retain the versatile guard Terance Mann.

Harden's Excitement

Harden is reportedly "ecstatic" about joining the Clippers and is eager to make his way to Los Angeles as soon as possible. There's even a chance he could attend the upcoming Clippers home game against the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night.

Harden's Journey

Harden's journey to the Clippers began in June when he requested a trade out of Philadelphia. Tensions with 76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey had reached an irreparable point. Despite being on the bench during Sunday's game, Harden had yet to play for the 76ers this season. He was expected to participate in Tuesday's practice.

Southern California Homecoming

Harden's move to the Clippers fulfills a desire to return to Southern California. The guard, who grew up in the region and made a name for himself at Artesia High School in Lakewood, is the latest Southern California product to don the Clippers' colors. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, both Southern California natives, joined the Clippers in 2019.

A Star-Studded Lineup

With Harden, Westbrook, and George on board, the Clippers now boast three of the top six active players in points scored who have yet to win an NBA title, according to ESPN Stats & Information research. Combined with two-time NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard, the Clippers are poised to make a serious championship run.

Upcoming Challenges

The Clippers, with a 2-1 record, have a busy schedule ahead. They face the Magic on Tuesday and the Lakers on Wednesday in Los Angeles. After this back-to-back, they have four days to integrate Harden and Tucker into the team's dynamics before embarking on a three-game road trip starting in New York against the Knicks on Monday.


Harden's Potential Reunion

During the road trip, James Harden could potentially face his former team, the Nets, in Brooklyn, before the Clippers conclude the swing with a game in Dallas next Friday. The NBA landscape has undeniably shifted with this blockbuster trade, and the Clippers are now strong contenders for their first-ever championship.