SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 02: James Harden #13 of the Brooklyn Nets on the court warming up prior to the start of his game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on February 02, 2022 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Stephen A. Smith believes that James Harden should be traded away from the Brooklyn Nets
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has admitted that Nets’ star James Harden should be an open discussion for a trade before the Feb 10 deadline. Harden has been courted by the Philadelphia 76ers in a deal for Ben Simmons. The deal hasn’t materialized with Harden just returning from injury.
He spoke on First Take saying: “Let me say this to you, it is a mistake for the Nets to ignore Harden’s trade rumors and not taking phone calls. You listen, you always listen, you have to. I’d listen because there are questions as to whether or not he is what he used to be. Hamstring injuries, weight issues coming into camp out of shape.” (h/t ESPN)
Harden was also left frustrated in the absence of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. The 32-year old signed for the Nets in January 2021, but has failed to impress since then. There were also issues in the management regarding his fitness levels after his signing.
The trio has failed to play substantial number of games together. Nets’ coach Steve Nash was tasked with an interesting prospect, but now has seen a major decline in their form.
Where could Harden go?
Harden has been part of the NBA for over a decade now. He is a former MVP and has been top of the scoring charts on multiple occasions. His form and fitness levels have seen a major deterioration in the last 2 years. The Sixers are interested to bring in a top Point Guard. Harden fits the bill perfectly, but a deal looks far from being struck.
Another probability is Harden continues with the Nets and recreates his old form. With Durant out with an MCL sprain, the onus is on Harden to lift the team. The Nets are in the 6th spot in the East and are 3-7 in their last 10 games. Coach Nash will have his work cut out into the last 30 games of the season. The Nets have been favourites to win the NBA title, but have not been able to gel well as a unit. Nets’ have a lot of talent, but the utilization is vital.
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