• Loading stock data...
Tuesday, December 10, 2024
Tune in on Dec. 11 at 1:05 p.m. ET for our last Future of Sports virtual summit of the year – Future of Sports: Marketing! Register Now

Is James Harden Playing His Way Out of Max Extension?

  • Harden is averaging 18.6 PPG this postseason, his lowest playoff average since 2011-12 when he came off the bench for OKC.
  • He’s eligible to sign a four-year, $223 million contract ($55.8M AAV) — $270 million total over five years.
Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Joel Embiid’s absence is going to ask some serious questions of James Harden’s superstar status, namely whether the 2018 MVP can still carry a team — and whether he’ll be worth a record-breaking contract this summer.

The outlook isn’t good: In the Sixers’ Game 1 loss without Embiid (concussion), Harden turned the ball over five times and scored 16 points on 13 FGA. 

Harden’s expected to opt into the final year of his deal, which is worth $47.3 million next season. After that, he’s eligible for a four-year, $223 million contract ($55.8M AAV).

But as he continues the downward trend that began in Brooklyn — which his trade to Philadelphia was supposed to reverse — any team should think twice about a long-term commitment.

  • Harden’s 18.6 PPG this postseason are his lowest since 2011-12.
  • His regular-season averages (22 PPG, 15.3 FGA) were his lowest since 2011-12 — and his 41% FG was his lowest since 2009-10.
  • With Philly, he’s averaging fewer points, rebounds, steals, FGA, and FG% than he did in Brooklyn — despite playing more.
  • In 27 games with the Sixers, Harden has yet to attempt 20 shots in a game. He attempted at least 20+ FGA in 306 games prior to the trade.

Some reports indicate that Embiid might return for Game 3 or 4 if he’s cleared, but it might be too late if The Beard doesn’t get back to his old ways.

Philadelphia can technically avoid the long-term commitment by only signing him for one year, but if not, he could become the first $60 million player at 37.

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

Nov 2, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Detailed view of a Wilson NBA basketball held by a referee during the second half between the Utah Jazz against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena

‘Obvious Weak Point’: Refs Remain an NBA Gambling Concern

A season after Jontay Porter, the biggest risk may not be players.
Nov 2, 2024; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines cheerleader runs with a flag before the game against the Oregon Ducks at Michigan Stadium.
opinion

College Football’s Billionaire Backer Era Begins

Is this the new normal in CFB recruiting?
LA Galaxy forward Dejan Joveljic (9) celebrates with midfielder Riqui Puig (10) after scoring a goal against Seattle Sounders FC in the second half in the 2024 MLS Cup Western Conference Final match at Dignity Health Sports Park

With or Without Messi, Major League Soccer Is Barreling Into the Future

After the Cup final, the league looks to accelerate its growth.
Jan 3, 2018; Philadelphia, PA, USA; General view as Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) runs across the center court logo during the third quarter against the San Antonio Spurs at Wells Fargo Center.

76ers Sweeten Arena Deal, Offer More Benefits Despite Fierce Opposition

The NBA team shows an openness to revising a key arena agreement.

Featured Today

Dec 18, 2022; Lusail, Qatar; FIFA president Gianni Infantino claps during the awards ceremony after the 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium.

FIFA Wants More Matches. Resistance Is Growing Inside the Global Soccer World

Resentment and frustration over expanded schedules is nearing a breaking point.
November 30, 2024

U.S. Investors Are Gunning for England’s Small Soccer Clubs

Is another Hollywood-like success story possible among the U.K.’s smallest clubs?
Nov 1, 2024; Boise, Idaho, USA; Boise State Broncos running back Ashton Jeanty (2) leads the team onto the field prior to the first quarter against the San Diego State Aztecs at Albertsons Stadium.
November 29, 2024

Schools Are Scrambling to Prepare for the NCAA Revenue-Sharing Era

In the post–House v. NCAA world, “everyone’s kind of on their own.”
Nov 4, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Recording artist Taylor Swift arrives prior to a game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
November 29, 2024

The PWHL Could Be Inviting a Date With Taylor Swift’s Legal Team

The Toronto Sceptres may have opened a Pandora’s box of trademark issues.
Caitlin Clark

Caitlin Clark Is Next Up for Taylor Swift With the Eras Tour..

Swift told Clark she and Travis Kelce want to watch the Fever.
December 8, 2024

Juan Soto Agrees to Groundbreaking $765 Million Mets Deal

Unlike Ohtani’s Dodgers deal, the Soto contract reportedly contains no deferred money.
Aaron Rodgers
December 9, 2024

A Jets–Aaron Rodgers Divorce Could Get Expensive

The Jets could end up with $49 million or more in dead money.
Sponsored

How UBS Crafts Impactful Partnerships Across Sports, Arts, and Culture

As UBS continues to expand its impressive array of sports and entertainment partnerships, the company solidifies its position as a leader in wealth management.
Oct 26, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; New York Yankees outfielder Juan Soto (22) reacts after hitting a home run against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the third inning for game two of the 2024 MLB World Series at Dodger Stadium.
December 8, 2024

Juan Soto’s $700M Question Looms Over MLB Winter Meetings

Soto, Hall of Fame picks, and the draft lottery highlight the gathering.
Luis Severino
December 5, 2024

Mere $67 Million for Pitcher Is Largest Deal in A’s History 

Severino had a strong season with the Mets after a tough 2023.
Jewell Loyd
December 5, 2024

Jewell Loyd Asks Out of Storm After Investigation Finds No Wrongdoing

Loyd reportedly filed the complaint of harassment and bullying by the coaches.
December 5, 2024

Hamilton’s Mercedes Era Ends in F1 Finale Amid Rising Tensions, Drama

Hamilton delivered eight constructors’ and six drivers’ championships for Mercedes.