With what James Harden showed the LA Clippers' front office and fanbase in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, the one and only script this offseason must begin with moving on from him. He deserves props for his massive regular-season carry job, but going into vanish mode in the postseason says everything LA needs to know about the type of facilitator they need to win a ring.
Furthermore, Harden will most likely accept his $36 million player option, as Los Angeles, specifically Intuit Dome, is a real-life dream. He would also remain close to his native area, which is a place of value for his family.
However, if and once his player option flashes green for acceptance, executive Lawrence Frank must conclude that the blueprint for winning next season excludes Harden's talents. The only way to succeed with the former MVP on the roster is to make him a third option by adding another star, and that does not seem to be the case.
Moreover, reputable sources have recently shared insider information about Harden's future, which goes against the general idea that the Clippers will make it to the NBA Finals next season.
Jake Fischer reports on James Harden's status with the LA Clippers next season, and it does not look good
Instead of spending $36 million on James Harden next season just to become anxious about how he will perform in the postseason, the LA Clippers should trade him in a package with Norman Powell for a credible, playoff-rising star. This magical addition would really suit who Kawhi Leonard and Ivica Zubac are in the playoffs.
Conversely, Fischer's Saturday report mentions Harden's contract situation being settled with the Clippers. This overrides any sort of trade buzz and backs up Lawrence Frank's optimism on the recent third-team All-NBA guard.
This is bad news for the Clippers' NBA Finals aspirations because, similar to most of Paul George's tenure, Harden is not equipped with the skill set at this age(35) to effectively assist Leonard in a series to seven. He did score 28 in game six, but his follow-up game consisted of seven points on eight attempts.
The Clippers demand better, and The Beard is not 'that' guy despite being paid big bucks to hold down the responsibilities of a number-two option. If he is back, LA will likely add another season to their embarrassing drought of not entering the last stage of the playoffs.