James Harden: Plan Is To Opt-In With 76ers

It seems like a formality, but until we hear it from James Harden, it’s hard to know what his plans were for the 76ers, his new team.

Harden can opt out of his contract at the end of the season, something he said he would probably do when still with the Nets — just to explore free agency for the first time in his career.

But following last week’s blockbuster deal that sent Ben Simmons to the Nets and Harden to the Sixers, it appears all that has changed for Harden, who met with reporters Tuesday.

“Harden can’t pick up his $47.4MM player option for ’22/23 at this point, but can do it once the Sixers’ season is over, and he made it clear today that he intends to do so,” wrote Luke Adams of Hoops Rumors.

Harden indicated that Philadelphia was where he wanted to be when traded by the Rockets in January 2021. Instead, he went to Brooklyn.

“Philly was my first choice, it just didn’t happen,” Harden told reporters. “Best big man in the league in Joel (Embiid), and obviously the coaching. Just from top to bottom, it made sense. I’m just happy and blessed that I’m here.”

And apparently, it is where he intends to remain.

For now, Harden will be out at least the rest of the week, including the All-Star break, with a bothersome hamstring.