Sixers ‘most likely’ trade destination for James Harden: report

The Sixers, according to The New York Times’ Marc Stein, are “the most likely” trade destination for Rockets star James Harden.

As the NBA preseason begins tonight Philadelphia ranks as the most likely destination when the Rockets eventually reach the point of trading James Harden, league sources say
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) December 11, 2020

The Rockets insist (for now) they will not trade Harden. The Sixers insist (for now) they will not trade Ben Simmons

But sources say the familiarity between the front offices can ultimately defuse any lingering tension from Daryl Morey's departure from Houston to Philadelphia
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) December 11, 2020

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Stein’s reporting is the latest item of note in the Harden saga, which began this offseason, has continued into training camp and could quite possibly last well into the season.

Harden has the Sixers, Nets, Bucks and Heat among his preferred trade destinations, according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania.

Charania also reported the following on Thursday:

“The 76ers want to view their two young All-Stars, Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, under new head coach Doc Rivers — who has raved about both players and has privately made clear he wants the opportunity to have elevated success with both Simmons and Embiid — and centered around president of basketball operations Daryl Morey’s new acquisitions such as veteran shooters Danny Green and Seth Curry and key reserve center Dwight Howard.”

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Indeed, Rivers has spoken glowingly about Simmons and Embiid. He indicated earlier this week that he likes the team he’s seen during training camp.

“You’re not hearing them from us,” Rivers said in response to a question about trade rumors. “As long as you don’t hear them from us, you should be very comfortable. We like our team, man. I tell you, that team I just watched out there is pretty special. Those rumors, none are coming from us.”

Harden has been the NBA’s leading scorer the last three seasons. He's a special offensive talent who’s averaged 29.6 points and 7.7 assists during his time in Houston.

The considerable buzz around him is very much warranted, and it makes sense that president of basketball operations Daryl Morey and the Sixers continue to feature prominently. It would not be surprising if he’s the dominant off-court story in the NBA for months to come.