This is what’s known as a true blue basketball saga. And for the 76ers, the season hadn’t even started.
It actually all began back in June, when star guard James Harden picked up the option on his contract, then immediately demanded a trade. That much you likely know by now. And probably also that Harden only wants a trade to the Clippers.
Harden, 34, skipped media day, joined the team for training camp, then randomly left practice and went away for 10 days. He returned, only to be refused entry onto the team flight for the opener at Milwaukee.
Now, the NBA has decided to look into it — as Harden isn’t injured, but again, not suiting up, either.
“We’re looking into the facts around James Harden’s availability (Thursday night) to determine whether an approved reason exists for his lack of participation,” said NBA spokesman Mike Bass, via Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.
As Wojnarowski also noted, because the Sixers-Bucks game is being nationally televised, Philadelphia must provide a valid reason why Harden isn’t playing, given that he’s a recent All-Star. All are part of the league’s new player participation rules.
That said, ESPN’s Bobby Marks added that players can be excused for injury, personal or rare/unusual circumstances. If nothing else, it’s safe to say the Harden drama fits at least the latter.
Philadelphia is playing a national TV game against Milwaukee tonight, which requires the Sixers to provide the league with a valid explanation for why a healthy recent All-Star isn't playing. Harden returned to the Sixers on Wednesday after being away for 10 days on what team and… https://t.co/L6HljfBBej
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 26, 2023
Looking for the latest NBA Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow Hoops Wire on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NBA News and Rumors for all 30 teams!
