East Notes: Sixers, James Harden, Nets, Tyler Herro, Pacers

76ers

While star guard James Harden has reportedly requested a trade, the Sixers may not have given up on the idea that he could return, per Brian Windhorst of ESPN. 

“The Sixers are not afraid to let it be known that they don’t think necessarily it’s over with James Harden, that maybe everybody was just a little bit in their feelings,” Windhorst said, via NBA Central.

Harden picked up the $35.6 million option on his contract, meaning he will be eligible for free agency next summer. He has mostly been linked to the Clippers in trade rumors.

• The Sixers are guaranteeing the $8 million salary of guard De’Anthony Melton for the 2023-24 season, per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. Melton averaged 10.1 points in 77 games last year.

Nets

The Nets are open to the idea of trading for Heat guard Tyler Herro, per Ian Begley of SNY.tv. Herro is believed to be available.

“It’s unclear which Nets players were discussed as part of the three-team trade and if Brooklyn had any other stipulations for completing a deal,” Begley wrote. “But as of Saturday evening, the Nets were, at least, open to the idea of a trade that landed Herro in Brooklyn.”

Herro, of course, is also being widely mentioned in rumored deals involving Blazers star Damian Lillard.

Of course, the Nets have been linked to Lillard as well, though it’s unknown if they are among his preferred destinations. Several reports have suggested they are.

Pacers

By signing free agent guard Bruce Brown and trading for Knicks forward Obi Toppin, the Pacers filled some important needs, even if they have yet to accomplish everything they hoped this offseason, opined the Indianapolis Star.

“They could also look to make a move to break up their log jam at center behind starter Myles Turner with Jalen Smith, Isaiah Jackson and Daniel Theis still on the roster,” the Star wrote. “Moving one of them for draft capital could help free open a spot if they want to sign one of their veteran free agents, George Hill and James Johnson Jr.”

• Standout guard Bennedict Mathurin will join the Pacers for the NBA Summer League. Zion Brown of the Indy Star explains why here.