The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-finals-who-won-the-first-ever-nba-championship-20220607-0033.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> won game 4 against the Boston Celtics in what was an electrifying game that prevented the Celtics from taking a bigger advantage.
Harden was not only lethal during Game 4 but he set a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Playoffs-2023-James-Harden-sets-a-new-postseason-personal-record-20230507-0023.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">new postseason personal record</a> with more than 47 playoff games.
The 76ers tied the series with the Boston Celtics but the pain to win Game 4 was obvious as that game ended in overtime 116-115.
<h2>Who was the boy who received the Harden’s shoes after Game 4?</h2>
His name is John Hao, the boy is one of the survivors of the 2023 Michigan State shooting, he was paralyzed after the shooting but that didn’t stop Hao and Harden from developing a friendship.
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It is not common when an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/ringless-best-nba-players-that-have-never-won-a-ring-20210625-0009.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA star gives </a>away his shoes after a game, it has to be someone very special like Harden and after Game 4 against the Celtics everyone witnessed what a great person Harden is.

Why did James Harden give his shoes to a boy after Game 4 against Celtics?

Why did James Harden give his shoes to a boy after Game 4 against Celtics? - Bolavip US

The 2023 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba-playoffs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA Playoffs</a> continue giving close games. Especially in the semifinals each series has a lot of things to look at, and the clash between the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/philadelphia-76ers-t102083" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/boston-celtics-t101837" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boston Celtics</a> is one of the great matchups in the Eastern Conference.
One clear point of attraction is <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Will-Joel-Embiid-fare-better-NBA-MVPs-who-couldnt-succeed-in-playoffs-the-same-year-20230503-0041.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joel Embiid</a>. The reigning <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-MVP-2022-2023-How-many-votes-did-LeBron-James-receive-20230503-0003.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MVP</a> had a great season that led to the center receiving the most important individual award, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Philadelphia-76ers-receive-bad-news-on-Joel-Embiids-injury-status-20230429-0036.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">but he had a knee injury in the first round of the playoffs</a> that made him miss Game 1 vs Boston. 
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In that match the 76ers stun the Celtics on the road with an impressive performance from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-The-trade-that-could-send-James-Harden-back-to-Houston-20230428-0024.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James Harden</a>. The former MVP looked like his old self scoring 45 points in his team’s 119-115 win. Although his level took a big hit in the last two games.
<h2>What happened to James Harden?</h2>
The 2017-2018 MVP put the team on his back in Embiid’s absence. They were able to steal that game largely because he was unstoppable, but he hasn’t been the same even with the Cameroonian back in the lineup. His shooting is what has the fans very concerned.
Harden scored 12 points with a very low efficiency, finishing with 2-14 in FG and missing his six shots for three in game 2. Their following match saw him struggle yet again with a stat line of 16 points with a FG total of 3-14. He ended up making just five field goals in 28 attempts, shooting for a combined 17.85%.
Those low percentages had Embiid giving his teammate some advice on how to improve. “You tell him to keep shooting. Be aggressive. Can’t get too high, can’t get too low. Some nights you’re going to make lots of other shots, a lot of tough ones, and some nights you’re not going to make them. It’s about finding other ways to impact the game,” he said after losing game 3.

76ers’ Joel Embiid shares the advice he gave to a struggling James Harden

76ers’ Joel Embiid shares the advice he gave to a struggling James Harden - Bolavip US

Unsurprisingly, it looks like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James Harden</a> will have a point to prove in the playoffs. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> haven’t given up on him yet, but things could change if he once again fails to help the team challenge for the championship.
Last year, Harden left a lot to be desired as the Sixers failed to get past the Eastern Conference semifinals for the second straight season. The team decided to run things back, but the latest word on the street is that they could make a different decision if nothing changes this time.
Harden has been heavily linked with a potential return to Houston, who stopped being a playoff contender the day he left for the Brooklyn Nets. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rockets</a> could surrender young talent to bring him back.
<h2>Rumor: Rockets could trade Jalen Green for James Harden or other star</h2>
(Transcript via Yahoo! Sports)
“Houston’s long-rumored potential reunion with Harden, the 76ers guard who holds a player option for 2023-24, in addition to the Rockets’ chances at landing other primary free agents and top-billing trade targets this offseason, were repeated themes throughout Houston’s conversations with coaching candidates, sources said. Middleton has been another potential target discussed throughout the Rockets’ coaching search, sources said. 
“Udoka spent time with Harden as an assistant during the All-Star guard’s first season in Brooklyn. And Celtics All-Star Jaylen Brown, whom rival executives are closely monitoring as he becomes extension eligible this summer, has been one of Udoka’s most public supporters after Boston suspended the coach following an improper relationship with a Celtics staffer. The Rockets, sources said, also addressed the idea of including second-year guard Jalen Green, the No. 2 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, as part of a package for acquiring established star talent.”
<h2>James Harden’s future in Philly may hinge on playoffs performance</h2>
According to Woj, all options seem to be on the table for Harden at this point. Houston would welcome him with open arms, while the Sixers would wait until the end of the playoffs to make a decision.
“James Harden’s future is very unclear in Philadelphia,”Wojnarowski said on his podcast. “Houston is very much in play for him. And I think a lot may depend on [whether] they make a run and win and it’s easy to pay him long-term big money, or he just wants to be in Houston. Win or lose he goes, or it’s dependent on the team’s success.”
 
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Harden’s talent is undeniable, but his lack of success in the playoffs is a huge stain in his otherwise great résumé. He left Houston aiming to win in Brooklyn, but left for Philly shortly after for the same reason. Will he have to go back to the Rockets to try and win that elusive ring?

NBA Rumors: The trade that could send James Harden back to Houston

NBA Rumors: The trade that could send James Harden back to Houston - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> went to great lengths to trade for and then keep<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> James Harden.</a> Harden also agreed to make less money so the team could build a contender around <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Joel-Embiid-blasts-the-media-over-MVP-narratives-20230414-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joel Embiid.</a>
The season has been successful for the Sixers, and Harden had plenty to do with that. He led the league in assists per game and total assists, proving that he’s still far from done in this league.
However, his tenure in the City of Brotherly Love might be coming to an end. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, he’s still considering moving back to Houston and re-signing with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rockets.</a>
<h2>James Harden’s Future In Philly Is Unclear</h2>
“James Harden’s future is very unclear in Philadelphia,” said Wojnarowski on his podcast. “Houston is very much in play for him. And I think a lot may depend on [whether] they make a run and win and it’s easy to pay him long-term big money, or he just wants to be in Houston. Win or lose he goes, or it’s dependent on the team’s success.”
 
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<h2>Sixers Should Replace Him With Damian Lillard, Says Insider</h2>
That’s why Stephen A. Smith believes the Sixers shouldn’t cry over the spilled milk and just let him walk away. If anything, they should focus all their energy in trying to orchestrate a move for Damian Lillard:
“I would go the route of Philadelphia,” Smith said of Lillard. “His loyalty to the city of Portland has been unwavering, and this is the closest that I’ve ever heard him sound to being anything different, but I think Damian Lillard needs to get the hell out of Portland as quickly as he possibly can.”
“To me, outside of Steph Curry, there isn’t a point guard in this league I’d take on my team more so than Damian Lillard,” Smith added. “I would take Damian Lillard over James Harden in a heartbeat. I wouldn’t think twice if I was Philly and I can get my hands on Dame and I had to forfeit Harden.”

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/stephenasmith?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stephenasmith</a> thinks Philly would be a good fit for Damian Lillard �� <a href="https://t.co/RnNj11DkFj">pic.twitter.com/RnNj11DkFj</a>
 — First Take (@FirstTake) <a href="https://twitter.com/FirstTake/status/1646544189029597185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2023</a> </blockquote></div>
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Lillard is reportedly considering his future with the Portland Trail Blazers, and he’d give the Sixers another elite scoring option and pick-and-roll operator next to Embiid if they manage to get him.

Sixers are close to losing James Harden

Sixers are close to losing James Harden - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James Harden</a> is one of the greatest scorers in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> history, and most likely a first-ballot Hall of Famer, even if he never wins a ring. Yet, his style of play has plenty of detractors.
Throughout the years, multiple fans and pundits have criticized Harden’s iso-heavy and free-throw-heavy game. He’s never been much of a defender, and he tends to underperform when the playoffs come, with some exceptions.
Those woes are once again on display. He’s not shooting the ball welland barely managed to score 8 points in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-Sixers-may-have-found-a-replacement-for-James-Harden-20230413-0023.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sixers’</a> Game 2 win over the Brooklyn Nets. That’s why NBA analyst Colin Cowherd couldn’t take it anymore.
<h2>Colin Cowherd Puts James Harden On Blast</h2>
“Playoff James Harden has surfaced,” Cowherd said on his show. “Through two games, 32% shooting, 15 a game, 4.5 turnovers, zero free throws. This is why I don’t trust him. If Harden has a bad shooting night, I don’t even wanna get into his defense— on his good nights, he doesn’t play it.”
“Zero free throws in two games,” Cowherd added. “Because as we’ve said for years, you don’t get the whistle in the playoffs and so he’s not as effective. He’s always been a nightclub guy, a late-night guy, a not-as-committed guy; he’s got in and out-of-shape-guy. That’s fine, but look at how fast he has eroded over the last four years.”

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“James Harden now is a glorified role player with a shoe deal and lots of fashion.”
 — <a href="https://twitter.com/ColinCowherd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ColinCowherd</a> <a href="https://t.co/OLe0d2JMHm">pic.twitter.com/OLe0d2JMHm</a>
 — Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHerd/status/1648371685194711040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2023</a> </blockquote></div>
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To be fair, the Sixers have dominated, and Harden has been a proficient playmaker throughout the course of the season. Also, he’s been in great shape with the Sixers, so maybe those shots are uncalled-for.
But Harden has a long history of not doing so well when the season is on the line. So, some may not want to give him the benefit of the doubt at this point in his career anymore, which is valid.

Analyst rips 'glorified role player' James Harden after another playoff dud

Analyst rips 'glorified role player' James Harden after another playoff dud - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA </a>is a star-studded league, and as such, every team often strives to stack as much talent as they can. That’s why <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LeBron James</a> or <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kevin Durant</a> have drawn criticism for often teaming up with fellow All-Stars.
But the reality is that winning an NBA championship is extremely difficult, regardless of who you’re playing with. So, even if you may not be a fan of Superteams, that trend isn’t likely to change any time soon.
Moreover, sometimes stars change teams just because they’ve outgrown them or both parties are ready to move on. With that in mind, we’ll talk about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/damian-lillard" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Damian Lillard</a> and the best players who might switch sides next season.
<h2>NBA Stars Who Might Switch Teams Next Season</h2>
<h3>3. James Harden</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230418_BUS_219413_james_harden.jpg_22993414_aae281a1.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> James Harden — Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Just when some claimed that James Harden had reached the backend of his prime, he responded by having one of his best seasons yet and leading the NBA in both total assists and assists per game.
It’s clear that he’s still got plenty of mileage left, but he might not be with the Philadelphia 76ers for much longer, regardless of how this season pans out. He’s rumored to be interested in going back to Houston.
<h3>2. Damian Lillard</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230418_BUS_219413_damian_lillard_x1x.jpg_22993414_59b99fa0.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Damian Lillard — Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Damian Lillard’s loyalty has been one of his most remarkable traits, but it’s also been his Achilles heel. But finally, after all these years, it seems like the league’s most loyal guy may have reached his limit.
Lillard has let it be known that he doesn’t want to be a part of a rebuilding team at this point in his career. So, if the Portland Trail Blazers decide to go in that direction, that means he’s no longer a part of their plans.
<h3>1. Draymond Green</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230418_BUS_219413_draymond_green.jpg_22993414_204d9f69.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Draymond Green — Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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There have been plenty of rumors about Draymond Green’s future. He’s openly discussed his desire to sign another lucrative deal before the end of his career, and that might not happen in the Bay area.
The Golden State Warriors are in a tough spot, salary-cap-wise. Green has been a stalwart and a key contributor to their success, but they might decide he’s not worth all that money at this point in his career, especially if GM Bob Myers is no longer around.

NBA Rumors: Damian Lillard, James Harden, and All-Stars who could change teams

NBA Rumors: Damian Lillard, James Harden, and All-Stars who could change teams - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">76ers</a> are once again entering the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a>postseason with high aspirations, but the moment of truth has come. With the regular season behind us, now it’s time for Philadelphia to live up to its contender status.
The Sixers have a star-studded roster, headlined by the likes of Joel Embiid and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James Harden</a>. But since they failed to get past the conference semifinals in the last two seasons, they have a lot of doubters out there.
Tyrese Maxey is aware that many people call them “chokers,” but he’s convinced that his team can succeed. The 22-year-old recently took to his “Maxey on the Mic” podcast, suggesting that anything short of a title will be failure for the Sixers.
<h2>Tyrese Maxey says it’s championship or bust for Sixers</h2>
“Title or bust,” Maxey said, via ClutchPoints. “I think it is title or bust for us, honestly. With the talent that we have on this team — the talent that we have, the camaraderie that we have, the timetable that we have — we want to win now. We want to win now. I know myself, I’m young, [De’Anthony Melton]’s young, [Jalen McDaniels], we have some young pieces. But we also have some vets who are ready to do this thing right now.
“Like y’all been saying, we have Joel Embiid, who will probably win MVP this season. We have James Harden who has won an MVP in his pastBoth of their guys are hungry for their first title…We’re putting the pressure on ourselves. There’s other teams that’s gonna put the pressure on themselves. It’s a toss-up. Who wants it more? We’re gonna go out there and fight our tails off and put our best effort into the situation.”
Maxey has a point. With Embiid at an MVP level, the Sixers must take a step forward this time. If they once again fail to challenge for the title, they may not have another chance to contend in the near future.
 
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Sixers news: Tyrese Maxey puts pressure on Joel Embiid, James Harden

Sixers news: Tyrese Maxey puts pressure on Joel Embiid, James Harden - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/portland-blazers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Portland Trail Blazers</a> might want to head in a different direction for the upcoming <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> season. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/damian-lillard" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Damian Lillard</a> has outgrown them already, and they might want to rebuild once and for all.
Should that be the case, then we could expect multiple suitors lining up to pursue him. From the Los Angeles Lakers to the Miami Heat or even Los Angeles Clippers, there will be no shortage of potential destinations.
However, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith believes the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> would be the best fit for Lillard right now, especially if James Harden decides to opt out of the final year of his contract.
<h2>Stephen A. Smith Urges Sixers To Pursue Lillard</h2>
“I would go the route of Philadelphia,” Smith said. “His loyalty to the city of Portland has been unwavering, and this is the closest that I’ve ever heard him sound to being anything different,but I think Damian Lillard needs to get the hell out of Portland as quickly as he possibly can.”
“To me, outside of Steph Curry, there isn’t a point guard in this league I’d take on my team more so than Damian Lillard,” Smith added. “I would take Damian Lillard over James Harden in a heartbeat. I wouldn’t think twice if I was Philly and I can get my hands on Dame and I had to forfeit Harden.”

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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/stephenasmith?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stephenasmith</a> thinks Philly would be a good fit for Damian Lillard �� <a href="https://t.co/RnNj11DkFj">pic.twitter.com/RnNj11DkFj</a>
 — First Take (@FirstTake) <a href="https://twitter.com/FirstTake/status/1646544189029597185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2023</a> </blockquote></div>
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<h2>Harden Might Leave At The End Of The Season.</h2>
Notably, Smith isn’t the only pundit who believes the Sixers could be up to something with Lillard. Harden is supposedly interested in a Houston Rockets reunion, so Nick Wright thinks it should be a no-brainer:
“There are those odd murmurs that James Harden might leave and go back to Houston,” said Wright. “If they flame out in the postseason, it could be a tough offseason for Philadelphia. I’m sure they would try to trade for Dame and remake the team that way.”
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No disrespect to Harden, but he’s entering the backend of his prime, while Lillard is one year younger. Also, he’s an even more explosive scorer at this point in his career, so this would be a blast to watch for hoops fans everywhere.

Stephen A. Smith shares bold take on Damian Lillard replacing James Harden in Philadelphia

Stephen A. Smith shares bold take on Damian Lillard replacing James Harden in Philadelphia - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> are one of the biggest candidates to go the distance and win the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> championship this season. And that’s going to remain the case for as long as Joel Embiid and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James Harden </a>are healthy.
More than that, this championship run will be crucial to the organization’s plans for the future. That’s because Harden can opt out of the final year of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent.
And with all the buzz about Harden reportedly wanting to go back to the Houston Rockets, NBA analyst Nick Wright claims that the Sixers could pursue <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/damian-lillard" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Damian Lillard</a> as his replacement.
<h2>Sixers Could Pursue Damian Lillard To Replace James Harden, Says Nick Wright</h2>
“There are those odd murmurs that James Harden might leave and go back to Houston,” Wright said. “If they flame out in the postseason, it could be a tough offseason for Philadelphia. I’m sure they would try to trade for Dame and remake the team that way.”
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<h2>Lillard Hints At Leaving Portland</h2>
Lillard has always shut down the rumors of discontent with the organization, but it seems like he’s finally weighing in on his future, stating that he might not want to be a part of a rebuilding team:
“It ain’t a threat,” Lillard said on Stephen A’s World. “I am not gonna say that I am putting them on a clock; I’m just saying if we can’t do something significant like that, we won’t have a chance to compete on that level.”
“Not only will I have a decision to make, but the organization will too,”Lillard added. “Are we gonna go young, or are we gonna get something done? We’ve not been fully committing to either one. Everybody wants to win. They believe I deserve that opportunity, and I am trusting that we’re committed and diligent about doing those things this offseason; this is our most important offseason since I’ve been here.”

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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
If no significant improvements are made, Damian Lillard believes he must make a decision about his future in Portland ��<a href="https://t.co/2qvvXvtGO8">pic.twitter.com/2qvvXvtGO8</a>
 — NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheNBACentral/status/1646316331661250565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2023</a> </blockquote></div>
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So, the door is wide open for Daryl Morey and the Sixers to try and make a run at Lillard. They’ll have to make the numbers work, but there’s arguably no better potential replacement for Harden right now.

NBA Rumors: Sixers may have found a replacement for James Harden

NBA Rumors: Sixers may have found a replacement for James Harden - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-James-Harden-rips-his-haters-in-new-interview-20230110-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James Harden</a> took a big pay cut to help the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Jokic-Embiid-or-Giannis-Stephen-Curry-predicts-next-NBA-MVP-winner-20230403-0033.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> build a competitive roster ahead of this season. But <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-James-Harden-may-have-chosen-his-next-team-already-20230227-0005.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">his future with the team </a>has always been in doubt, even if they went to great lengths to get him.
Harden has been linked with a potential Houston Rockets comeback. He’s not getting any younger, and even his guy Daryl Morey might be hesitant to sign him to the big-money deal he’ll likely demand.
That’s why, according to an unnamed GM and Heavy’s Sean Deveney, the Sixers wouldn’t mind <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-James-Harden-and-stars-that-could-change-teams-next-season-20221226-0015.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">if Harden</a> decided to opt out of the final year of his contract and take his talents somewhere else next season.
<h2>Sixers Could Let James Harden Walk Away</h2>
“There are some in that organization who would not mind at all if Harden left,” the GM told Deveney. “I don’t think he will, but he could, and even if he doesn’t, he is not going to get a real long deal from the Sixers. He is getting older, you don’t know how much of a commitment you want to make him.”
<h2>Harden’s Prime Is Coming To An End</h2>
Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report recently pointed out that teams have some doubts about Harden’s future. He’s not getting any younger and his offensive production has taken a dip over the past couple of years:
“At 33 and playing for his third team in three years, Harden has a career trend line that is angling down,” wrote Hughes. “He wasn’t an All-Star this season for the first time since 2011-12, and his athleticism has nearly disappeared. Still a terrific passer and crafty enough to manufacture 20 points per game with ease, it’s not like Harden is without his uses. But even if he takes a small pay cut from this year’s reduced salary, he may not be worth the money.”
 
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Harden is still one of the best players in the league, and he proved it by leading the NBA in assists this season. But this is a cruel business, and he might not have that many miles left in the tank.

NBA Rumors: Sixers don't mind if James Harden leaves

NBA Rumors: Sixers don't mind if James Harden leaves - Bolavip US

The most anticipated moment of the season is looming around. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/the-most-unbreakable-records-in-nba-history" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2023 NBA playoffs</a> are just around the corner, and the excitement is through the roof. Once again, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/The-30-best-teams-in-NBA-history-20200701-0001.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sixers</a> will try and have a deep run.
Philadelphia has fallen short of expectations in the last two seasons, failing to get past the Eastern Conference semifinals. However, with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Jokic-Embiid-or-Giannis-Stephen-Curry-predicts-next-NBA-MVP-winner-20230403-0033.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joel Embiid</a> at an MVP level and James Harden by his side, they have reasons for optimism.
While the Sixers’ primary focus is to win this year, the front office is reportedly looking ahead as well. In fact, there are people in the organization who are already preparing for an eventual departure of Harden in the summer.
<h2>Rumor: Sixers willing to let James Harden go</h2>
“There are some in that organization who would not mind at all if Harden left,” an Eastern Conference executive told Sean Deveney of Heavy. “I don’t think he will, but he could, and even if he doesn’t, he is not going to get a real long deal from the Sixers. He is getting older, you don’t know how much of a commitment you want to make him.”
Harden’s contract isn’t up until 2024, but his performance in the playoffs could make a huge impact in his future in the City of the Brotherly Love. If he once again fails to step up when it matters the most, the 76ers may give up on him. But only time will tell.
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NBA Rumors: Sixers’ shocking stance on James Harden’s future

NBA Rumors: Sixers' shocking stance on James Harden's future - Bolavip US

NBA Rumors: Sixers' shocking stance on James Harden's future

Not so long ago, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-James-Harden-rips-his-haters-in-new-interview-20230111-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James Harden</a> was considered the most unstoppable scorer in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Report-Mavericks-would-have-to-pay-more-money-to-keep-Kyrie-Irving-20230226-0033.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Basketball Association</a>. However, people called him out for his lack of success with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-James-Harden-rips-journalist-over-free-agency-rumors-20221226-0006.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Houston Rockets.</a>
However, it’s not like he failed to make the playoffs or anything. He was quite close to making it to the NBA Finals, but he couldn’t get past the Golden State Warriors, the ultimate juggernaut in the league.
So, now that the years have passed and he’s no longer in Rocket city, some around the league believe that he’s looking forward to leaving the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-Joel-Embiid-gets-real-on-his-performance-for-the-Philadelphia-76ers-20221213-0057.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia 76ers </a>and going back to Houston next season.
<h2>NBA Rumors: James Harden, Houston Rockets Interested In Reunion</h2>
(Transcript via Rockets Wire)
“The Houston Rockets remain optimistic regarding the potential of bringing superstar guard James Harden back to the organization in 2023 free agency, per ESPN’s Tim MacMahon. Harden is currently finishing out a second season with the Philadelphia 76ers. 
The Rockets will have up to $60 million in salary cap room this offseason, and Harden could be a focal point of their plans to return to NBA relevancy. MacMahon spoke about the situation on the latest episode of ESPN’s Brian Windhorst &amp; The Hoop Collective podcast.”
 
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<h2>Daryl Morey Reacts To The Harden Rumors</h2>
Notably, former Rockets GM Daryl Morey got him to Philadelphia and even convinced him to takea pay cut this season. However, not even Morey can guarantee Harden won’t be back in Houston in 2024:
“I know he’s just focused on this season and not the offseason, but I know that he’s focused on winning the championship,” Morey said on ESPN. “He’s gonna be wherever he feels like he has the best chance. Obviously, his pairing with Embiid is very, very good and we feel like it’s a great pairing for the long term.”
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Harden forced his way out of Houston and left on bad terms. Also, he might not be what the team needs right now. But he’s one of the best players in franchise history, so it would be nice to see him go full circle before hanging it up.

NBA Rumors: James Harden may have chosen his next team already

NBA Rumors: James Harden may have chosen his next team already - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-James-Harden-rips-his-haters-in-new-interview-20230110-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James Harden</a> is no longer the guy who could put up a 40-point, 15-assist game night in and night out. The guy who some were sure would lead the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-James-Harden-rips-journalist-over-free-agency-rumors-20221226-0006.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Houston Rockets</a> to their first <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Trade-Rumors-Buddy-Hield-and-the-best-shooters-available-20230110-0010.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> title since the Hakeem Olajuwon days.
Harden emerged as the league’s most unstoppable offensive force in Houston. He was a perennial MVP candidate while leading the league in scoring and also ranking near the top in assists per game.
But as great as his individual numbers were, the Rockets often failed to live up to the expectations in the playoffs. That’s why <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-James-Harden-and-stars-that-could-change-teams-next-season-20221226-0015.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Beard</a> realized it was time for him to move on and pursue a different challenge.
<h2>NBA News: James Harden Left Houston To Win A Championship</h2>
(Transcript via Vincent Goodwill — Yahoo Sports)
“But even as Harden has nestled into this role of being the co-star to Philly’s one-man human eclipse, he still admits to yearning for those days when 35-point, 10-assist games were the norm.
‘I would love that, but not as much — if that makes sense,’ Harden told Yahoo Sports. ‘In Houston, I was doing that every single night. It was expected. It’s a lot of times I feel like I can have that same impact on games. But you see the bigger picture. I’m just focused on one thing, man. That’s all that matters.’
When he talks, he sounds less like someone willing to take a backstep to a losing team in the twilight of his career even as the rumors about his future swirl.
‘I wanted to have the chance to win at the highest level. Once I figured we weren’t gonna be able to do that in Houston, I tried to put myself in a situation to win at the highest level,’ Harden told Yahoo Sports. ‘The ultimate goal for me is a championship.&apos;”

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Harden has yet to win that ring, but his chances are slightly better now that he’s teamed up with Joel Embiid. However, maybe he’ll need to turn back the clock and show glimpses of that unstoppable scoring machine he used to be back in the day.

NBA News: James Harden explains why he left the Houston Rockets

NBA News: James Harden explains why he left the Houston Rockets - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-joel-embiid-gets-brutally-honest-on-sixers-title-aspirations-20221013-0045.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> went to great lengths to acquire James Harden from the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-Kyrie-Irving-explains-why-hes-been-so-dominant-this-season-20230109-0011.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brooklyn Nets</a>. They traded <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-nets-markieff-morris-explains-why-ben-simmons-is-silencing-the-doubters-20221125-0024.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ben Simmons</a>and then managed to convince Harden to take a pay cut in the offseason.
Of course, hopes were quite high after watching Harden and Joel Embiid dominate throughout the regular season. However, some people still doubt The Beard and his ability to deliver when it matters the most.
It seems like the narrative toward<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-James-Harden-and-stars-that-could-change-teams-next-season-20221226-0015.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Harden</a> has always been negative. That’s why the former MVP isn’t bothered about what people have to say about him anymore, especially at this point in his career.
<h2>NBA News: James Harden Is Unbothered By The Haters</h2>
“I don’t need the credit. I don’t really care. I guess people give credit to who they want to give credit to,” Harden said, per Sixers Wire. “You know what I mean? Like, they pick and choose who they want to give credit to. If I was to sit there and feel some type of way that I wasn’t getting any credit, I wouldn’t be doing a million other things that I’m supposed to be doing. I focus on what I can control. I go out there and do my job and try to be the best James Harden I can be.”
“I guess you’re impacting the game in more than one way,” The Beard continued. “So just trying to find ways to put my footprint on the game. Whether it’s scoring, whether it’s helping the bigs rebound, or being the facilitator I am. So, obviously, it’s a good thing. You don’t ever want to take them for granted, but it means you’re impacting the game in more than one way.”
 
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Harden is one of the most unstoppable scorers this game has ever seen, but his lack of playoff success will always be a stain in his résumé. Hopefully, this will be the year he finally puts his doubters at ease with a deep postseason run.

NBA News: James Harden rips his haters in new interview

NBA News: James Harden rips his haters in new interview - Bolavip US

Winning an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-finals-2022-the-warriors-break-two-records-at-once-as-champions-20220617-0001.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA championship</a> isn’t always at the top of the priority list. Sometimes, players look to make <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-the-nba-superstar-worth-1-billion-20201026-0011.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">as much money as they can</a> while they still can, and that’s also valid. Especiallywhen they’ve already gathered <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-Jayson-Tatum-and-leading-candidates-for-MVP-20221207-0024.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">plenty of milestones.</a>
It’ll all depend on howtheir career has panned out. It’s not unusual to see veterans give up a lot of money just to stay homeor give up millions and years to pursue a championship. Others don’t care about competing anymore; they just want the money.
Whatever the case, it’s getting more usual to see stars switching sides every chance they have, and next offseason won’t be the exception to that rule. So, here, we let you know about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-draymond-green-and-all-stars-that-could-be-traded-soon-20221018-0007.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">three stars</a> that could leave in free agency.
<h2>NBA Rumors: 3 Stars Who Could Leave In Free Agency</h2>
<h3>3. Russell Westbrook</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20221230_BUS_210001_russell_westbrook.jpg_22993414_ddcef47a.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Russell Westbrook – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Russell Westbrook was the Los Angeles Lakers’ fall guy way more often than not. He’s salvaged his career by embracing his new role coming off the bench, but that doesn’t mean he’s happy.
Truth be told, neither the Lakers nor the fans have done anything to keep Westbrook. He might as well leave and play somewhere else where he’s actually valued, especially now that he won’t make that much money.
<h3>2. Draymond Green</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20221230_BUS_210001_draymond_green.jpg_22993414_6bd904c6.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Draymond Green – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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There were rumors of Draymond Green forcing his way out of the Golden State Warriors because they wouldn’t give him a contract extension. Those rumors were only fueled by his punch on Jordan Poole.
Green has a player option for next season, and we know how much Klutch Sports players like to control their own destinies. He’s a bonafide LeBron James fan, so he might as well give up money just to team up with the King.
<h3>1. James Harden</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20221230_BUS_210001_james_harden_x1x.jpg_22993414_597fc700.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> James Harden – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Recently, rumors of James Harden’s desire to leave the Philadelphia 76ers emerged, and this wouldn’t be much of a shocker. I mean, it’s been a common trend for Harden over the past couple of seasons.
He’s already denied those reports about a potential Houston Rockets comeback. But we’ve already seen and heard this kind of story way too many times, so there could be some truth to it, especially if the Sixers underperform in the playoffs again.

NBA Rumors: James Harden and stars that could change teams next season

NBA Rumors: James Harden and stars that could change teams next season - Bolavip US

Latest news from James Harden. Find out about all the news related to James Harden on bolavip.com/en

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