James Harden continues to go with the flow of things as the NBA season nears. Unless a blockbuster deal happens, all signs post to seeing the 201 NBA MVP still suiting up for the Houston Rockets.
But as far as playing at the same level expected from Harden, such remains to be seen. His list of preferred destinations has been updated although the two clubs may not have the assets to make it work. They are the Milwaukee Bucks and the Miami Heat per source according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
For the Bucks, NBA fans may find it hard to see Harden playing alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. Both have feuded in the past so that immediately raises questions on chemistry. Further, it could dictate whether the Greek Freak would sign a max-deal or not.
Also, any deal for Harden would mean them giving up a key piece – Khris Middleton. Any deal that Milwaukee would make needs to include the 29-year-old star, NBC Sports reported. While it would be a huge upgrade, it still raises questions on team chemistry between Harden and the team in all.
As for the Heat, Miami does not have immediate future picks to offer. Also, young stars like Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro have been branded as untradeable, further dampening the possibility of a deal getting done.
Sources: James Harden now has the Milwaukee Bucks and Miami Heat among his preferred trade destinations, along with the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets.
More on Inside Pass at @TheAthleticNBA: https://t.co/Cp1Irm2VZN — Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 10, 2020
One thing both Eastern Conference teams have in common is that they are contenders. They could be a player away from an NBA title, one of the key prerequisites for the eight-time All-Star.
It remains to be seen if the Bucks or the Heat seriously consider it and take the next step. But unless something develops, Harden may find himself still with Houston once the new season opens on Dec. 22.
Seeing how Harden thumbed down a huge $103 million two-year deal the last time out, it is clear that Harden wants to bolt the Rockets camp. Russell Westbrook has already been dealt to the Washington Wizards in exchange for John Wall.
Harden is serious about leaving and wants to win an NBA title. The Philadelphia 76ers and the Brooklyn Nets were previously mentioned as destinations but little has progressed since then.
On the Sixers' part, a deal may not come to fruition. Philly is not keen on parting with either Ben Simmons or Joel Embiid. Aside from the two young stars, the 76ers may not have enough assets to complete a deal for “The Beard.”
