Kofi Inkoom
Rachel Nichols, an esteemed NBA writer and host, has recently revealed the main reason behind James Harden’s formal trade request from the Philadelphia 76ers.
According to Nichols, Harden’s primary goal is to regain his role as the top offensive player, which he believes is currently overshadowed by Joel Embiid’s prominence.
Harden’s interest in staying with the Philadelphia 76ers has waned due to alleged broken trust with Daryl Morey, the team’s President of Basketball Operations.
This alleged breach of commitment about a contract extension prompted Harden to request a trade. Rachel Nichols delves deeper into the situation, shedding light on another crucial factor motivating Harden’s decision to leave the team.
Nichols, now a part of FS1’s “Undisputed,” further explains that Harden’s discontent stems from his dissatisfaction with being placed in a secondary offensive position within the team’s structure. Harden firmly believes that his skills and abilities should still place him in the spotlight.
He’s determined to regain his role as the key offensive player, rather than being relegated to a supporting role behind Embiid. This determination fuels his desire to find a new opportunity where he can once again shine as the primary figure.
As reported by ClutchPoints, Nichols says James Harden continues to see himself as the player who made an impact in Game 1 against the Celtics. He believes he should be leading the team.
His desire to leave Philadelphia is rooted in the current dominance of Joel Embiid, which makes it feel like the “Joel Embiid show” and diminishes his own role.
“He still thinks of himself as the guy from that Game 1 [vs. the Celtics]… he thinks he should be leading the show. The reason why he wanted out of Philadelphia in the first place is that it’s the Joel Embiid show right now.”
—@Rachel__Nicholspic.twitter.com/3wOKuR2aQa
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 31, 2023
Is this a possibility? It could hold some truth, although there have been previous reports suggesting a positive relationship between James Harden and Joel Embiid.
Harden was likely aware of Embiid’s leadership role even before joining the Philadelphia team. They’ve also developed strong chemistry as a successful pick-and-roll duo, making a continuation of their partnership appealing.
Embiid and Harden are really the best duo in the Association 🫡 pic.twitter.com/qXsQXwuQUi
— 𝘾 𝙝 𝙧 𝙞 𝙨👽 (@SirEMBIID) March 13, 2023
Looking at his preferred destination, the Los Angeles Clippers, the situation might not be much different. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are the primary figures there. In fact, Harden could even end up as the third option in that scenario.
In reality, Harden’s recent performance hasn’t displayed the consistency needed to be the top option on a team contending for a championship.
It’s fair to note that Rachel Nichols mentioned that Harden needs to acknowledge his changed capabilities.
At 34, he might need to embrace a new role, whether it’s in Philadelphia or as the third star in Los Angeles. However, it seems that he’s resolute in avoiding wearing a Sixers jersey again.