James Harden spoke to the media for the first time on Tuesday as a member of the Philadelphia 76ers. While The Beard answered a number of different questions, perhaps the most polarizing thing he said is that he was always hoping to join the Sixers, even before the veteran was traded from the Houston Rockets to the Brooklyn Nets.
James Harden says Philadelphia was "originally his first choice" when leaving Houston "but it didn't happen." Says he doesn't want to get into why he decided to leave Brooklyn, but says from top-to-bottom the situation here in Philadelphia is great for him.
— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) February 15, 2022
Harden refused to dive deep into why he ultimately left Brooklyn, but it's pretty clear The Beard is very happy to be in Philly. Also, Sixers president Daryl Morey revealed they were initially hoping to pull off a three-team deal for the Harden-Ben Simmons blockbuster:
Daryl Morey says he originally thought there could be a three-team deal to bring James Harden to Philadelphia and Ben Simmons to Brooklyn, and that it would have been the best thing for all involved if it had happened that way.
— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) February 15, 2022
Sounds like Harden was never sold on joining the Nets. If his heart is truly in the City of Brotherly Love, this could prove to be a massive addition for the Sixers. Aside from his versatile skill set which should fit perfectly alongside Joel Embiid, feeling comfortable with your surroundings is equally as important. Plus, Harden is already familiar with Morey from their days in Houston and they have a strong relationship.
The guard has yet to make his Sixers debut and it will have to wait until after the All-Star break due to a hamstring injury. Nevertheless, Philly fans can't wait to see their new star duo in action.
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