James Harden Says Relationship With Sixers President Daryl Morey Can’t Be Repaired

October 13, 2023

Well, it appears things are as bad as ever with James Harden and the 76ers. Or more specifically, Harden’s feelings about his relationship with team president Daryl Morey.

Harden met with reporters on Friday, saying that relationship with Morey is beyond repair.

“This is in life. When you lose trust in someone, it’s like a marriage,” Harden said. “… I wanted to retire a Sixer. And the front office didn’t have that in their future plans.”

#Sixers PG James Harden said he had a relation with the front office (not referring Daryl Morey by name) for 10 years. Asked if he thinks it can repaired, Harden said, “No.” Then he explains why: pic.twitter.com/iTIlktx5Z1

— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) October 13, 2023

All of this stems from a contract situation that started as soon as the season ended. Harden picked up his one year player option for more than $36 million, then immediately demanded a trade. Morey still hasn’t found one, and after skipping media day, Harden reported to the Sixers.

Before that, he called Morey “a liar” when speaking at a summer event in China.

On Friday, he said the situation is “out of my control.” Of course, he did add that he is ramping up and hopeful of playing in the Sixers’ preseason finale.

By all accounts, Harden has not been a distraction at camp. Instead, he is said to be going full throttle and approaching practice just like he would any other season.

But there’s no doubt that this continues to hang over the franchise’s head like a dark basketball cloud. In the meantime, Morey and the Sixers are believed to be looking for a trade, but don’t seem to be in any hurry — and are likely to let things play out before jumping into a move.

Multiple outlets have reported they’ve spoken to the Clippers in recent weeks, but have yet to come close to anything resembling an agreement on a deal.