NBA trade rumors: After a lot of speculation about James Harden leaving the Houston Rockets, it looks like he could finally be heading to the Philadelphia 76ers.
According to Shams Charania, James Harden now has the Milwaukee Bucks and Miami Heat among his preferred trade destinations, along with the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets.
As the NBA preseason begins tonight Philadelphia ranks as the most likely destination when the Rockets eventually reach the point of trading James Harden, league sources say
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) December 11, 2020
NBA trade rumors: Houston Rockets tear down James Harden’s and Russell Westbrook’s poster from their training facility
What an ideal Harden trade looks like for the Philadelphia 76ers.
The Rockets have made it clear what they want in return for the former MVP. A young cornerstone, young players, and/or picks. In order for the 76ers to pull off a deal like that, there are numerous things that need to happen in the early part of the season.
Tobias Harris will need to have a powerful case for an All-Star selection, if not get to nod for the game if he is going to be one of the centerpieces of a potential Harden transaction.
NBA News 2020-21: New extension adds $190m to Paul George’s current LA Clippers salary
At the age of 28, Harris is in his prime, and he’d be a good player for the Rocket to help transition out of the Harden era if he reaches All-Star form. However, if he’s not playing at an All-Star level then this deal doesn’t even get discussed.
There are two other players that need to have breakout performances besides Harris for the Rockets to even consider trading Harden to Philly without Simmons or Embiid not included in a deal. Matisse Thybulle needs to play at an All-Defensive team level this year.
NBA News 2020-21: Bradley Beal and Caris LeVert sign endorsement deals with Jordan
Editors pick
