Though nearly every fan believes, right now, James Harden on the LA Clippers is compatible in every way, the ultimate decision lies in his hand through a player option valued at just more than $36 million. Harden gets to make the gamble, and if he risks switching teams, the former MVP could regret not giving his hometown another chance for the rest of his career.
Harden is making this crucial, career-changing choice after having one of the most perfect seasons NBA fans have ever witnessed from a 35-year-old. Though failure came in the postseason, his 2024-25 campaign will be impossible to forget.
This season, Harden averaged 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds, shooting 41.0% from the floor and 35.2% from three. These numbers may not fully convey it, but he remains a superstar, having led LA to 50 wins and earned the highly regarded All-NBA honor.
Moreover, Clipper Nation has observed that availability typically declines with age, especially for players under intense pressure to perform; however, Harden is the notable exception. He was miraculously fifth in the NBA in assists while playing 79 games.
With zero signs of body deterioration, the Clippers want Harden back, and he seems to feel the same way. Thus, the latest intel from Michael Scotto confirms the speculation.
Michael Scotto reports the LA Clippers are likely to hold on to James Harden, firmly, until the 2027 offseason
Given that all-star guards do not grow on trees, the LA Clippers winning window exists through the hands and IQ of James Harden. The playoff disasters were evident, but LA can help prevent this from recurring by strengthening their supporting cast.
Furthermore, Michael Scotto, a well-trusted insider, recently mentioned that Harden will decline his player option this summer and re-sign on a different price tag until after the 2026-27 regular season. If true, that summer will be massive as Kawhi Leonard will also enter the free agency market.
Harden declining could be viewed differently, depending on the headspace he is in. He may be opting out for more money in his bank account or because he wants less to help the Clippers reach the maximum amount of financial flexibility.
Nevertheless, Harden is not expected to leave the Clippers hanging following the June 29th deadline. This confirms who will be LA’s leader, tone-setter, and showtime floor general for the next two seasons under Intuit Dome.