Disgruntled Houston Rockets star James Harden has finally arrived to training camp and has “tested in accordance with the NBA's protocol,” according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. Harden took his COVID-19 test at the Toyota Center in Houston.
This news comes not long after an ESPN report stated Harden had expanded his trade list to include the Philadelphia 76ers and perhaps some other contenders. However, nothing is imminent at this time. Trade discussions with the Brooklyn Nets have reportedly been dormant for weeks, while the Sixers are currently unwilling to trade Ben Simmons or Joel Embiid in a blockbuster deal.
James Harden reported late to training camp after spending the last week celebrating Lil Baby's birthday in Atlanta and Las Vegas. Given his recent trade request, this caused a stir around the NBA and put new Rockets head coach Stephen Silas in a tough spot at training camp. Silas confirmed Tuesday that Harden had indeed reported to camp:
Houston recently traded Russell Westbrook for John Wall, whom James Harden supposedly preferred to play with. Wall claimed he had a “great talk” with Harden about their future together, but the former MVP's delayed arrival to camp and all the rumors surrounding him continue to suggest he still wants out for a better chance at at his first championship.
The Rockets are holding out hope they can convince Harden to change his mind, and for now they're only going to make a move if they get a massive haul in return. The superstar showing up to camp is at least a hint of good news, but these situations usually don't end well when a player's trade request goes public in this fashion.
It's unclear if Harden will be allowed to travel with the Rockets to Chicago for their preseason opener on Friday.
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