[Saba Sport News] The Los Angeles Clippers have been linked to James Harden for several weeks, but they are cautious about overspending to acquire the Philadelphia 76ers guard. Reports suggest the Clippers have made an offer and are eager to finalize a deal promptly. However, they are not planning to increase their current offer, as stated by Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Pompey’s report indicates that the Clippers’ offer includes a first-round pick, a draft-pick swap, and expiring contracts in exchange for Harden. Players like Norman Powell and Terance Mann have been mentioned as potential targets for the Sixers, but the Clippers have stood firm in their position that these players are not available.
Harden carries a salary of $35.6 million, and the Clippers have several players with expiring contracts, such as Marcus Morris ($17.1 million), Nicolas Batum ($11.71 million), Robert Covington ($11.69 million), and Mason Plumlee ($5 million). It is likely that the Clippers’ offer is centered around a package involving most of these expiring contracts to provide salary cap relief to the Sixers.
The Clippers appear to be the primary suitor for Harden, which reduces their incentive to improve their offer. Sixers president Daryl Morey is reportedly the key figure in delaying the deal. Morey is known for his patience, as demonstrated in his handling of the Ben Simmons situation two seasons ago, which ultimately led to the swap with Harden.
It is probable that Morey is waiting for better offers once again. However, with Harden publicly expressing his frustration, the Sixers may not be willing to wait until the trade deadline, as they did with Simmons.