The Philadelphia 76ers prepare to start their NBA season with high expectations. The Sixers have the reigning MVP in Joel Embiid and have aspirations to win a championship. The hopes have been somehow dampened by the absence of James Harden.

Harden requested a trade from Philly, but the Sixers still want him in the lineup. Now, the latest NBA rumors shed light on Harden's time away from the team. Apparently, the Beard is absent from the team tending to his ill mother, per NBA Insider Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson.

James Harden's absence is related to a family matter

This information changes the perception of Harden's feud with the Sixers. Robinson provides more information on the situation.

“The mindset of the 76ers PG is that the health of his mother his mother comes first,” Robinson said in an X (Twitter) post. An unnamed source with knowledge told Robinson that Harden is “going through it.” In addition, the source said, “He loves to compete & he is in the best shape of his life. But he feels a sense of betrayal from Philly.”

The sense is that Harden can hopefully return, but taking care of his family is his priority. For what it's worth, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN previously reported that Harden has been away from the team due to a family matter.

First and foremost, the NBA world wishes Harden's mother a speedy recovery. In spite of the recent events, fans have mixed reactions to this reason for Harden's unavailability. Some are skeptical due to the unnamed source including the part about Harden feeling betrayed by the team.

Regardless, James Harden must make sure his family is okay before returning to the court. When he is ready to return, the Sixers organization will welcome him as Joel Embiid and company look to be a top team in the Eastern Conference.

As of now, Harden is not being fined for his absence, but he could if he misses regular season games. How will the recent news in his personal life affect his status with Philadelphia?