PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 01: James Harden #13 of the Brooklyn Nets during the first half of the NBA game at Footprint Center on February 01, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Coach Steve Nash confirms Brooklyn Nets are not trading James Harden to the Philadelphia 76ers
Brooklyn Nets head coach Steve Nash has confirmed that star James Harden will not be leaving the franchise before the trade deadline on February 10.
Nash also said Harden has repeatedly told his coach that he plans to stay in the city for a long time. He said on ESPN:
“I’ve talked to James; he wants to be here,” Nash said. “He wants to be here long term as well, so I don’t think anything’s changed other than noise from the outside. James wants to be here, we’re building with James and we think we have the best chance to win with James. I don’t think anything’s changed on the inside, in our locker room, in our communication, it’s just all the noise from the [outside].”
Harden, however, refused a contract extension in the summer dousing speculation over his future. If Harden declines his player option, he can sign a four-year, $200 million contract with a team that has cap space. Harden, a former MVP in 2017, with the Houston Rockets, has dropped off this season.
The 32-year old has been hampered with injuries to his wrist and hamstring. Harden has averaged 22.8 points, 9.9 assists and 8.3 rebounds in 30 games this season. He has also had very little time on court with fellow stars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.
The trio has played together for only 16 games since Harden joined in January 2021.
With concerns surrounding Harden’s fitness, many believe that Ben Simmons could rediscover his best form with the Nets. Currently, the Australian has made himself unavailable to play and has missed most of the season. The Nets will profit from avoiding such a trade, unless given more firepower.
Will we see Simmons at the Nets or will Harden rediscover his form again in Brooklyn?
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