Los Angeles Clippers: Lawrence Frank Drops Bold Outlook on the Team Ahead of 2025-26 Campaign 4 May 3, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; LA Clippers guard James Harden (1) in the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets during game seven of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Clippers: James Harden to Make Huge $36.35 Million Decision This Offseason

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 8:49 AM ET

The Los Angeles Clippers are reportedly looking to extend their partnership with James Harden beyond this offseason, with Kawhi Leonard continuing as the franchise’s cornerstone.

According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Harden plans to do the Los Angeles Clippers a solid by declining his $36.35 player option to negotiate a more team-friendly and longer contract..

“After earning an All-Star and All-NBA Third Team selection, Clippers guard James Harden is trending towards declining his $36.35 million player option, league sources told HoopsHype,” Scotto wrote in his column.

Los Angeles Clippers: James Harden Gets 100% Honest on Playing 47 Minutes in Game 6 Win Vs. Denver Nuggets 13 Feb 26, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; LA Clippers guard James Harden (1) looks towards former Chicago Bulls player Pat Beverley, who was on the sidelines, after scoring against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

“Both Harden and the Clippers are interested in continuing their partnership, sources say, with a growing belief that his next contract could keep him in Los Angeles through the 2026-27 season alongside Kawhi Leonard. Harden, a California native, has enjoyed his homecoming with the Clippers and raised the franchise’s floor, including key players such as Ivica Zubac and Norman Powell,” he added.

James Harden’s second full season with the Los Angeles Clippers

James Harden is coming off a productive campaign with the Los Angeles Clippers. The Beard averaged 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, 8.7 assists, and 1.5 steals on 41.0 percent shooting from the field across 79 regular season appearances.

Mar 30, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden (1) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley (4) during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

The 35-year-old guard also earned an NBA All-Star selection after assuming an increased role, with Paul George leaving for the Philadelphia 76ers last summer.

However, Harden’s “choker” reputation resurfaced in the postseason. In their Game 7 loss against the Denver Nuggets in the first round, he was criticized for only notching seven points, five rebounds, 13 assists, and two steals on 2-for-8 shooting.