Speculation surrounding James Harden’s future is reaching a fever pitch.
During the most recent episode of “First Take” on Friday, ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins shared his thoughts on James Harden’s prospects with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Harden made a return to the 76ers’ facility this week but didn’t accompany the team to Milwaukee for their season opener. He was instructed to remain behind.
Perkins believes that, given Harden’s behavior off the court, his actions may ultimately lead to his exit from the NBA.
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“The best-case scenario for Daryl Morey and the 76ers to do exactly what they just did: tell him to stay home. If James Harden doesn’t realize the importance of that, then that’s on him,” Perkins said. “And guess what? He’s going to be straddling the fence of actually being out of the league next year.”
Perkins is not the only former NBA player who shares this perspective on Harden’s situation. Matt Barnes expressed similar sentiments last month.
“I think James has to be careful because the NBA doesn’t need him. The NBA doesn’t need him anymore,” Barnes said. “I’m all for player empowerment. But he forced his way out of Houston, forced his way out of Brooklyn. Now, he’s going to force his way out of Philly. He’s got so much talent and a lot of game left, but he could talk himself out of the league, which is crazy to think.”
Harden has been traded twice since the 2020-21 season, and it appears that a third trade is almost inevitable. Hence, the adage of “three strikes and you’re out” may very well be applicable to Harden’s future prospects in the league.
