New NBA Contender Team Could Land James Harden

We're all aware of James Harden's highly publicized desire to join the Los Angeles Clippers. This move seems logical on paper, as the Clippers would finally secure a reliable point guard for assists, while Harden would have an opportunity to pursue that elusive NBA Championship.

A Different Take on a Harden Trade

Nonetheless, there are those who contend that it might be more advantageous for Harden to consider a different team. Kendrick Perkins, who beat the Kobe Bryant-led Los Angeles Lakers during the 2008 NBA championship as a member of the Boston Celtics, has offered a trade suggestion for the Lakers.

Perkins currently serves as an on-air commentator for ESPN, appearing on various programs such as NBA Today, Get Up, First Take, and SportsCenter. During his appearance on NBA Today, here is what he recommended for the Lakers to do:




The Lakers' pursuit of James Harden would undoubtedly spark controversy, with concerns arising regarding his compatibility with the team, the acquisition cost, and, most crucially, his future commitment to the franchise.

Harden's Fit with the Lakers

In terms of compatibility, Harden is a ball-dominant guard who, since his arrival in Houston in 2012, has rarely been tasked with off-ball responsibilities. His usage rate has consistently ranked among the highest in the league, and he has served as the primary ball-handler for his teams with the Rockets, Nets, and most recently, the 76ers.

Considering that the Lakers already feature LeBron James and Austin Reaves, both of whom excel with the ball in their hands, it's not necessarily a question of Harden being less effective than these two. However, it does raise doubts about the optimal utilization of LeBron and Reaves in a scenario where Harden is also in the mix.

On the other hand, Anthony Davis would likely see significant benefits. As Perkins points out, Harden's proficiency in pick-and-roll situations and his play making skills have consistently proven advantageous for any big man he has played alongside, dating back to his partnership with Clint Capela in Houston.

Asking Price

The primary concern arguably revolves around the asking price rather than the compatibility with the team. Considering that Harden was an All-NBA player last season, it is undeniable that he still commands a reasonable return in a trade. However, his age, contract uncertainties, and past erratic behaviour all contribute to the Lakers' hesitance in parting with significant assets.

A potential trade package for Harden would likely need to include D'Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura (to meet salary requirements) in addition to a combination of high-potential assets such as draft picks, Jalen Hood-Schifino, or Max Christie.

This package would undeniably outshine what the Clippers are capable of providing due to their limited assets. According to the most recent reports, the Clippers declined the 76ers' demand, which included a first-round pick, a pick swap, and Terrence Mann, with Mann being the main point of contention.


Harden's Longevity

Arguably, the most significant concern in this deal is his contract extension. Part of his dissatisfaction with Philadelphia stems from their unwillingness to grant him an extension while he approaches the final year of his contract. Interestingly, he had a player option during the previous off season, which offered him the opportunity to explore free agency.

However, Harden declined that option, opting to retain his player status and anticipate an extension from Philadelphia. If he were to be traded to the Lakers, it's reasonable to anticipate that he would request a longer-term contract from the team's management, likely leading to a significant amount of turmoil.

Perhaps it's wisest to avoid this move, and the Lakers should stay with their current roster. Perkins' suggestion does, however, encourage us to explore other playoff-caliber teams that might benefit from having a Hall of Fame point guard, apart from the Clippers.

Credits
Sports Illustrated