The Brooklyn Nets have been involved in the two biggest mid-season trades of the previous two seasons. After acquiring James Harden from the Brooklyn Nets last season, they traded him away to the Philadelphia 76ers to get Ben Simmons. The Sixers added two other players and two draft picks to land Harden and Paul Millsap, signifying a massive improvement to their roster.

The big winner of this deal is Joel Embiid, who gets to play alongside one of the best guards in recent NBA history. Harden not only pairs up with Daryl Morey, who was the lead front-office executive when Harden was on the Rockets. He also gets to play with Embiid, who he has long been fond of, per ESPN's Adria Wojnarowski and Ramona Shelburne.

Harden may not have a direct history with Embiid, but he has always respected him. He even pushed Morey to try and trade for him in Houston, sources said.

“James respects players who do a good job defending him,” a source said. “And Joel has always done that.”

Related NewsArticle continues below
Baylor Bears guard VJ Edgecombe (7) passes the ball away from Mississippi State Bulldogs forward Cameron Matthews (4) during the second half in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Lenovo Center.
Ranking 3 best VJ Edgecombe destinations in 2025 NBA Draft
Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain (20) holds his head next to Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) after a hard fall during the third quarter.
Jared McCain’s insane reaction to Haliburton’s shot to force OT

The Sixers, who have been close to being a title-worthy team in the past, are now on a new tier of championship contention with Harden pairing up with Embiid. Philadelphia's ability to hold onto young role players Tyrese Maxey and Matisse Thybulle help the team retain its depth around its superstars.

Harde won't suit up for the Sixers right away, as he is still dealing with a hamstring injury. He is expected to rest this weekend.