James Harden did not show up for the Philadelphia 76ers' practice on Wednesday, October 18, and it appears it was connected to the latest trade package offered by Philly to the Los Angeles Clippers.
The 2018 NBA MVP was reportedly disappointed at how the latest Sixers-Clippers trade went, with Los Angeles rejecting the latest trade offer for James Harden, per FS1 personality Nick Wright.
NEWS:
— nick wright (@getnickwright) October 18, 2023
In the last 48 hours the Clippers were offered James Harden for ONE 1st round pick, ONE pick swap & Terrence Mann & they rejected the offer.
This killed all momentum towards a deal getting done & Harden’s disappointment at that result is why he no-showed today.
Wright claims that the Sixers offered Harden to the Clippers in exchange for a first-round pick, a pick swap, and Terence Mann. Unfortunately, the Clips were unwilling to agree to the trade pitch.
Read more: Is Alex Caruso Playing in Chicago's Season Opener?
Although Harden has been showing up at practice, the move is believed to be because the 34-year-old guard was trying to avoid fines. Unfortunately, his unexcused absence on Wednesday is expected to draw a huge penalty, although the 76ers are giving "The Beard" a chance to explain before doing so, Ramona Shelburne of ESPN reported.
Clippers remain reluctant to include Mann
While disappointing, the Clippers are standing pat on their decision not to include Mann in any trade deal. The 27-year-old remains untouchable for the Clips, something that Sixers President Daryl Morey is fully aware of, according to Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Considering Mann is a role player, most are left befuddled about why the Clippers are unwilling to part with the second-round draft pick. One possible reason is the age difference and the fact that Mann has time to develop.
Harden has already proven himself, being a former NBA MVP. But at 34 years old and the fact that he is due to make $35.64 million this year are likely why the Clippers are backpedaling.
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