James Harden. Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Insider provides brutal update for Sixers on James Harden trade saga

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 10/3/23

ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski doesn't expect James Harden to be traded anytime soon. The 2018 MVP did not attend the Philadelphia 76ers media day. Nor did Harden show up for the first day of training camp. However, the veteran guard is expected to rejoin the team.

Still, Harden's situation remains precarious. He wants to be traded. The L.A. Clippers remain the most likely trade destination. However, during an Oct. 3 episode of ESPN's "NBA Today," Wojnarowski reported that the Clippers may not be motivated to up their trade offer for Harden.

"They can wait. What happens in Philadelphia, what happens with Harden," Wojnarowski said. "Let what might become a very distracting, circus-like atmosphere to play out. They aren’t necessarily motivated to up their offer. Especially when they know they’ve made the best offer out there, and there’s really not another active, aggressive suitor for Harden. I don’t get the sense there’s any kind of trade in the short-term for James Harden."

“[The Clippers] aren’t necessarily motivated to up their offer. Especially when they know they’ve made the best offer out there & there’s really not another active aggressive suitor for Harden. I don’t get the sense there’s any kind of trade for Harden in the short-term”

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— BASKETBALL ON (@BasketballOnX) October 3, 2023

Harden's presence with the Sixers will only serve as a distraction. Regardless of whether Harden participates in a team practice or not, he will bring a cloud of dysfunction with him. The franchise can't afford to hold out on a potential trade for too long. The Sixers need to account for Joel Embiid's happiness as they look to retain their MVP.

Daryl Morey remains focused on receiving a strong return for his wantaway star. Harden's reputation for forcing his way out of teams will likely cause Morey to adjust those expectations. With a new head coach, the Sixers need a productive training camp. The players need to learn a new system and understand their roles.

Harden must be traded before the new season. Otherwise, Philadelphia can expect a tumultuous start in their bid to be crowned champions.

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