James Harden Fails to Show Up for Sixers Practice

Star guard James Harden reported to the 76ers last week, but it appears he has decided to stop doing so. At least, he decided that Wednesday.

Per Shams Charania of The Athletic, Harden was a no-show for practice, adding more drama to his offseason trade demand. Harden reportedly has not backed off that stance.

Harden has not been with the team since Sunday, having missed a shootaround and the Sixers’ preseason game vs. the Nets, Charania added. He is said to be seeking a trade to the Clippers, though the sides have not come close on any sort of agreement, as our Brandon Santomauro relayed here.

The Clippers are believed to be attempting to acquire draft capital from a third team to sweeten their offer for Harden, though by all accounts, the Sixers aren’t budging. Philadelphia may be trying to speak to other teams about a Harden deal, but interest is minimal — as he’ll become a free agent after the season.

Harden, 34, averaged 21.0 points, 10.7 assists and 6.1 rebounds in 58 games last season. He referred to president of basketball operations Daryl Morey “a liar” during an offseason event in China and has since indicated their relationship is beyond repair.

Per Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Sixers are skeptical that the Clippers will be able to meet their trade demands.

“The Sixers have been very skeptical of the Clippers’ ability to meet their trade threshold anytime soon, and believe that it would help Harden’s market — and the leverage element in regard to the Clippers — if he played like his former MVP self and reminded other teams that he’s worth pursuing,” Amick wrote.