Grade the trade idea: LA Clippers receive James Harden in blockbuster trade

LA Clippers use leverage to snatch Harden from Philly

As James Harden has become available by the Philadelphia 76ers, the LA Clippers must be all in if they hope to win a championship next season. What must be noted is that the former MVP will enter unrestricted free agency next offseason. This means that LA has a one-year trial on winning a ring, or there is a possibility he could leave for a team with better opportunities.

Furthermore, Harden recently had a solid season with the 76ers. Although he did not score as much, he was dishing dimes and creating plays for his teammates. This is exactly what head coach Tyronn Lue needs next to the offensive talents of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. In fact, Harden averaged 21.0 points, 10.7 assists, and 6.1 rebounds in 36.8 minutes of action. Additionally, he was relatively efficient as he shot 44.1% from the field, 38.5% from a distance, and 86.7% from the strike.

Moreover, because Harden may be in LA for only one season, the LA Clippers and every other team have a good bit of leverage in trading for the three-time scoring champion. In this case, Leonard and George will be held out of trade discussions. Along with these two, Terance Mann and Ivica Zubac should also be held out due to their team-friendly contracts and ability to dominate on the court.

This trade between the 76ers and Clippers sends James Harden to LA for Norman Powell, Marcus Morris Sr, Amir Coffey, and a 2024 second-round pick.