James Harden’s Absence Raises Speculation and Questions

Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden’s absence from practice on Wednesday has raised speculation and left Coach Nick Nurse with no explanation. Harden, who has expressed his desire to be traded, had been expected to participate in the practice session. However, he did not show up, leaving his teammates and coaching staff in the dark about his whereabouts.

Harden’s absence has further fueled trade rumors, as he has been seeking a move away from the 76ers since exercising his player option for the 2023-24 season. The star guard had recently hinted at making his preseason debut on Friday against the Atlanta Hawks. However, with his no-show at practice, uncertainty looms over when he will return to the court.

Coach Nurse remains hopeful but cautious about Harden’s return, stating, “If he’s here, we go; if he’s not here, we go,” indicating that the team will proceed with or without the influential player. Nurse also mentioned that Harden had previously assured him of his readiness to play on Friday, but the doubts remain until the situation clarifies.

Sources close to the situation divulged that Harden was in Houston in the past few days after attending a team meeting in New York. The 76ers’ management plans to hear Harden’s explanation for his absence before deciding on any potential consequences. It is evident that frustration has been building up for Harden, as his desired trade to the LA Clippers has yet to materialize.

According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, discussions between the 76ers and the Clippers have taken place, but a significant gap remains between the two teams in terms of a potential trade involving Harden. It appears that both parties are still far from reaching a consensus.

In his only media appearance during training camp, Harden had expressed his intention to play the last preseason game, emphasizing the need to acclimate to game situations and the physicality of defenders. However, his actions have not aligned with his words, as he was absent from Monday’s shootaround and game against the Brooklyn Nets.

Harden’s relationship with 76ers president of basketball operations, Daryl Morey, also appears to be strained. In August, during a shoe event in China, Harden labeled Morey a “liar” and stated that their relationship could not be repaired. Harden’s loss of trust in Morey seems to extend beyond the current situation and stems from a lack of communication and their playoff defeat to the Boston Celtics.

The absence of both James Harden and Joel Embiid, who have not played in the first three preseason games, has dampened the 76ers’ hopes for their upcoming game against the Atlanta Hawks. The team had expected both stars to be on the court together, forging chemistry and preparing for the regular season.

As the wait for Harden’s return continues, trade rumors, questions about his commitment to the team, and the impact on the 76ers’ upcoming season remain at the forefront. Only time will tell how this situation unfolds and whether or not Harden will ultimately wear a different jersey this season.