Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden. Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Clippers' James Harden has earned his latest payday

By Adam Taylor | Last updated Jun 29, 2025 7:44 PM ET

Since joining the Los Angeles Clippers, James Harden has enjoyed a renaissance. The former MVP has found a role that brings the best out of him on both sides of the floor. In truth, he's been the Clippers' most consistent performer over the past two years.

This past season, Harden ended the campaign with averages of 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 8.7 assists. He shot the rock at a 41% clip from the field and a 35.2% success rate from deep. Cleaning The Glass tracked him as adding 5.5 points per 100 possessions to the Clippers' offense when on the court. His presence resulted in a projected 13 wins on the year.

It makes sense, then, that the Clippers and Harden have moved to extend their partnership.

On Sunday, ESPN's Shams Charania reported that Harden was opting out of his player option for next season. He reportedly intends to sign a two-year $81.5M deal. The second year of the contract will be partially guaranteed. Harden will be in his late 30s by the time that deal comes to an end.

BREAKING: 11-time NBA All-Star James Harden is declining his player option and intends to sign a new two-year, $81.5 million contract to return to the Los Angeles Clippers, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/qQMwkkMjMs
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2025

Having the second year only partially guaranteed provides both Harden and the Clippers a level of flexibility moving forward. Neither side is tied into the deal if the current situation changes. However, it's clear that Harden is being rewarded for the fine work he's done since arriving on Ty Lue's roster.

The Clippers, if healthy, have all the tools to be a contending roster. Even at this late stage in his career, Harden is a driving force behind that potential success. Paying aging stars is generally seen as a risk. But, when that star is leading your team's offense with precision and professionalism, that risk is a calculated one.

If the Clippers can make some tweaks to the current rotation this summer, Harden may finally get the chance to push for a championship ring.

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

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