According to a trusted NBA insider, a June 30 deadline has been set for the Rockets to explore the possibility of bringing back their former superstar James Harden. This news has sparked excitement and speculation among fans, as they ponder the potential implications of a Harden return to Houston.
While nothing is set in stone, this looming deadline adds an extra layer of intrigue to the offseason and raises questions about the Rockets’ plans for their future. Will Harden don the Rockets’ jersey once again, or will the deadline pass without any significant developments?
Buzz surrounding Harden’s Houston reunion petering out
The speculation around a possible reunion between James Harden and the Houston Rockets appears to be fading, indicating a shift in the narrative. NBA insider Wojnarowski gave an update on Harden’s future with the 76ers following the 2023 NBA Draft.
Previously, there was a lot of conjecture and enthusiasm surrounding Harden’s possible return to Houston. However, new sources indicate that the chances of this reunion happening are dwindling.
The Philadelphia 76ers, who were determined to keep Harden, may not need to pay him a typical full-max contract as originally planned. The Houston Rockets’ reluctance to give Harden everything he may want has shifted the dynamics of the negotiations. This scenario gives the 76ers an advantage because they won’t have to go all-in to secure ‘Step Daddy’s services.
While the Rockets still have ample salary cap room and the ability to add additional players to their roster, the attention on a Harden reunion appears to be fading. The team looks to be considering alternative choices and contingency plans, indicating that Houston is not in a “Harden-or-Bust” predicament.
NBA insider claims Harden’s Philly picture to clear by the end of the month
Harden’s prospective return to the Houston Rockets has been highly speculated upon after a season and a half with the Sixers. However, new indications imply that the tide is turning in favor of Harden staying in Philadelphia.
NBA Insider Marc Stein said, there are rumblings that Harden is seriously considering staying with the 76ers. This flip in mood comes following head coach Doc Rivers’ resignation and Harden’s meeting with incoming head coach Nick Nurse, which appears to have influenced his decision-making process.
“The Nick Nurse-to-Philadelphia chatter was certainly starting to bubble in league coaching circles as Sunday night dribbled into Monday.”
The Sixers have “not abandoned hope” of re-signing James Harden. Both reports from Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine)
— Aidan Doc🧸 (@AidanDoc_) May 29, 2023
While the 76ers have made it apparent that they want The Beard back, the Rockets are also a viable alternative for the former MVP. Because neither team is likely to give a maximum contract, the negotiations will involve a careful balancing of financial considerations and loyalty.
Harden’s odds of returning to Philadelphia appear to be improving as the days pass. By the end of the month, NBA enthusiasts will know if the El Chapo of NBA will continue his path with the 76ers or begin a new one in Houston. The outcome of this dilemma will probably have far-reaching consequences for both organizations and the NBA landscape.
Do you think Harden will return to his home? Let us know in the comment box.
