The Los Angeles Clippers rely on elite scorers Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Leonard started the season recovering from a knee injury. Harden helped keep the team competitive in his absence. With both healthy, the Clippers aim for a deep playoff run. Long-term, the roster’s future remains uncertain. A full rebuild could come, but for now, the Clippers seem to follow a model similar to the Warriors with Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler. The front office may prioritize Harden’s contract to align with Leonard’s final year in 2026-27. He will likely decline his $36.3 million player option and sign a two-year contract worth $72-75 million. Almost two years on from a very public feud with Daryl Morey, James Harden will get paid by the Clippers this summer.

James Harden Set To Get Paid After Broken Promises And Betting on Himself

Harden’s Gamble on Himself

In 2021, Harden rejected a three-year, $160 million extension from the Brooklyn Nets. Since then, he has sought to recover that lost payday. He accepted two pay cuts—$11 million with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2022 and a smaller reduction with the Clippers this season.

Last year, Harden signed a two-year, $70 million deal with the Clippers. He bet on himself, expecting to play well and opt out for a bigger contract. He delivered, earning his first All-Star selection in three years. Now, he is positioned to leverage his strong play into a lucrative deal. The Clippers must decide whether to commit significant money to a 36-year-old Harden or pivot towards long-term flexibility.

Broken Promises in Philadelphia

Harden’s time in Philadelphia began with hope but ended in frustration. He joined the 76ers expecting to thrive alongside Joel Embiid. The duo showed flashes of brilliance. But internal tensions and contract disputes ultimately derailed their partnership.

Harden took a $14 million pay cut in 2022 to help the 76ers sign P.J. Tucker. The team framed it as a “sacrifice” for a championship push. However, the Sixers never planned to reward Harden with a maximum contract. The front office remained hesitant due to his age and playoff struggles. Harden expected a long-term deal but felt betrayed when it never materialized.

All-Star Snub and Growing Resentment

Harden’s frustration peaked in early 2023 when he missed the All-Star Game for the first time in a decade. He finished fourth among Eastern Conference guards in fan voting, trailing Kyrie Irving, Donovan Mitchell, and Jaylen Brown. NBA commissioner Adam Silver considered naming him as an injury replacement. However, Harden delayed his response, and Pascal Siakam was chosen instead.

The 76ers offered public support, but internally, tensions rose. They needed Harden to play like a superstar, but he felt undervalued. Head coach Doc Rivers and several teammates questioned his commitment. These issues came to a head in February when Harden skipped a team flight to Miami, choosing to travel separately to enjoy the nightlife. Rivers later confronted him, leading to an uncomfortable team meeting.

The End in Philadelphia

The 76ers’ playoff exit sealed the inevitable breakup. Two days after their Game 7 loss to the Celtics, Rivers was fired. Harden reportedly refused to play for him again. The front office initially prioritized re-signing Harden, but internal debates emerged about his worth.

Harden sought a four-year, $210 million contract. However, his leverage was limited. The Houston Rockets, once a rumored landing spot, lost interest. The 76ers hesitated to meet his demands. Frustrated, Harden exercised his $35.6 million player option and demanded a trade. His relationship with 76ers executive Daryl Morey deteriorated, culminating in a messy standoff before he was finally dealt to the Clippers.

What’s Next for Harden?

Despite past disappointments, Harden remains a valuable player. He adapted his game to fit with Leonard and carried the team in his absence. His All-Star season proves he still has plenty left in the tank.

The Clippers must decide if extending Harden is worth the risk. His track record suggests he will push for a two- or three-year deal. Given their win-now approach, they may have little choice but to pay him.

James Harden bet on himself, and despite setbacks, he is set to be paid finally.

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