James Harden is a team player. The superstar wing declined a $47.4 million player option to become a free agent this offseason. Had Harden signed, he could have negotiated a lucrative extension which would add another $61.7 million to his deal. Instead, Harden is seemingly moving towards a pay cut to benefit the Philadelphia 76ers.
Harden and members of the Sixers organization are meeting in the Hamptons today to begin negotiations on a new contract, per Chris Haynes. By opting out of his deal, Harden is no longer eligible for the huge raise. Many believe Harden will instead take roughly a $15 million pay cut in order to assist the team in bringing in more help.
The Sixers are reportedly in pursuit of Harden's former teammate, P.J. Tucker. Tucker's defense and hustle could add a big boost to the Sixers' ability to compete for a championship. However, his services come at a price. If the Sixers can negotiate a reduced contract for Harden, they'll have space to sign Tucker with room to spare.
Harden, who had a down playoffs averaging just 18.6 points. As the 32-year-old moves upward in age, his mentality has likely focused in on earning a ring. While he may not be able to take over like he used to, Harden is taking his savvy talents off the court and onto the negotiation table to get support for the next season.
Pairing Tucker with two talented superstars like Harden and teammate Joel Embiid is a recipe for success. Tucker will give the Sixers the rough edge they need to go back and forth with other teams while protecting their stars.
For now, Sixers fans can trust Harden's process.
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