1. Clippers get Harden and 76ers get All-Star in 3-team deal
The Sixers have made their intentions clear. They want a star or the draft capital to acquire one in return for James Harden. There has been no action because no team is eager to pay that price for a 34-year-old who has forced his way off three teams in three years. Harden is an immediate flight risk as soon as things are not going as planned.
The Bulls could be the 76ers path to getting the return they desire. Philly only has one first-round draft pick to offer in a trade, but getting another for James Harden could allow them to flip two to Chicago for Zach LaVine. The Bulls would have to head into a rebuild to make this possible.
The Clippers give up Marcus Morris Sr, Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, and one first-round pick to get James Harden. It is still a significant haul, but Harden led the league in assists last season. He is an outstanding offensive engine and could be just the piece the Clippers need to make a serious run. Their window would be short, but no team wants to face them in the playoffs if healthy.
Will the LA Clippers go all-in this season? They are certainly motivated to add as they head into their new arena next season. Going all-in could certainly be costly, but it is a necessary gamble if they plan on retaining Kawhi Leonard and Paul George and bringing a title back to Los Angeles. None of it will be easy, so stay tuned to see how it all plays out.
8 Players the LA Clippers gave up on too soon
The LA Clippers have had multiple stars on their roster in the mid-2010s and early 2020s, but they've also had a few others slip through their fingers.