On Wednesday, the Philadelphia 76ers made it official as they announced the re-signing of James Harden.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, it’s a two-year deal worth $68.6 million with a player option in Year 2. Harden took a pay cut after opting out of his contract, which would have paid him $47 million next season. With the pay cut, Philadelphia was able to add P.J. Tucker and Danuel House in free agency. In addition, they acquired De’Anthony Melton in a draft-day trade with the Grizzlies.
Harden, who was acquired by the 76ers as part of a five-player trade with the Nets in February, averaged 22.0 points (.410 FG, .330 3FG, .877 FT), 7.7 rebounds, 10.3 assists, 1.3 steals, and 37.2 minutes in 65 games played (all starts) between Brooklyn and Philadelphia.
In 21 games with the 76ers, he averaged 21.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 10.3 assists per contest in 21 games. Also, last season, the 13-year veteran was named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
“This is where I want to be. This is where I want to win, and I think we have the pieces to accomplish that goal,” Harden said via a press release announcing the move. “From my first day with the 76ers organization, the team and the fans have helped me feel at home here in Philadelphia. I’m excited to build off of last season, and I can’t wait to get out on the court with the guys and start this journey.”
76ers head coach Doc Rivers added: “I couldn’t be happier with James’ decision to commit to our organization. Over the last two years, we have taken major steps toward our ultimate goal of becoming champions,” said 76ers Head Coach Doc Rivers. “James shares our drive to win a title, and he believes being a 76er gives him the best opportunity to do that. Together, we will work tirelessly to achieve our goal.”
Before last season with the Nets and 76ers, Harden spent parts of nine seasons (2012-21) with the Rockets. During that time, Harden was named the 2017-18 NBA MVP after leading the NBA in points per game (30.4) and finishing third in assists (8.8). The 10-time All-Star was also among the top-three vote-getters for the award each season from 2016-20.
“James Harden is one of the greatest players in NBA history and a future Hall of Famer,” said 76ers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey. “His mission is to win an NBA title, and we’re thrilled that he will continue that journey here in Philadelphia… I believe we’ve only scratched the surface of what’s possible in his partnership with Joel and this talented roster.”
