5 Blockbuster trades that get James Harden on the LA Clippers
By Tyler Watts
The LA Clippers are still looking for ways to make a massive splash this offseason. James Harden wants to come to Los Angeles, and the rumors are not dying down. 76ers general manager Daryl Morey will wait for a significant package, but this situation usually ends with the star player being traded.
What would a deal look like between the two sides? The Clippers want to win and believe they are a title contender when healthy. They have explored trading Norman Powell and other pieces this offseason to upgrade their roster. LA needs a point guard, and Harden could be the perfect fit.
The two sides have talked about a trade, and they will continue to discuss the options. Philadelphia is determined to stay in contention, which means getting a significant return from the Clippers or whatever team lands Harden. Here is a look at five potential trades and why they could be the final package.
5 Blockbuster trades to get James Harden on the LA Clippers
5. Clippers preferred offer
The Clippers want to package multiple mid-sized contracts to trade for Harden. Ideally, they send out Marcus Morris Sr. and Robert Covington, which are two players LA has looked to deal this offseason. The Clippers will have to give up something of value, but they would prefer to keep that to one player and one draft pick.
LA’s first and preferred offer likely looked like this.
It was not an instant hang-up from Daryl Morey and the Sixers, but they want substantially more. Philadelphia gave up three role players and two first-round draft picks to acquire Harden just 16 months ago. They need to recoup that value and more if they want to quickly build a true title contender around reigning MVP Joel Embiid.
With the focus on staying near the top of the Eastern Conference, Morey likely counters by trying to swap stars with the LA Clippers.