The NBA has been impacted by James Harden trade rumors for weeks, but who are among some dark horse candidates to land the Houston Rockets star?
James Harden does not want to play for the Houston Rockets whatsoever next season, and there is no way to sugarcoat it.
The guard is so dissatisfied with the organization that he reportedly turned down a two-year extension worth $103 million, on top of the $133 million already owed to him over the next three seasons. Harden is clearly on the warpath trying to force his way out of Houston after eight seasons with the franchise, and all signs point to him eventually getting his wish and being traded.
While the eight-time All-Star was initially solely focused on joining the Brooklyn Nets to join forces with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, he has reportedly broadened his horizons. Along with the Philadelphia 76ers, there are several contending teams that Harden would prefer as landing spots, according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon Adrian Wojnarowski.
While the Rockets can trade him to whoever they please, if they choose to do so, there is no shortage of teams that would love to have the 2017-18 league MVP on their roster heading into next season.
The Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers appear to be the two teams best suited to swing a trade for James Harden, but who could be some dark horse teams to make a move? Well, without further ado, here are three potential destinations that could be in the mix.