James Harden Returns to Practice, But Won’t Join 76ers on Season-Opening Road Trip
After a 10-day absence, James Harden returned to practice for the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday. However, he will not be joining the team on their two-game road trip to open the 2023-24 NBA season.
According to Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report, Harden arrived at the airport ready to board the team’s flight to Milwaukee for Thursday’s opener against the Bucks. But a security official denied him entry to the plane. Prior to arriving at the airport, team officials had informed Harden that they preferred him to stay at home and continue working out.
Initially, it seemed that staying home was just a suggestion rather than a mandate. Harden even participated in portions of the practice session with the intention of joining the team on the flight to Milwaukee. However, he was stopped by a security official at the airport and informed that he was not permitted to accompany the team.
General manager Elton Brand and head coach Nick Nurse had a conversation with Harden, explaining that the organization preferred him to follow their workout plan, which included staying at the practice facility while the team was away.
The 76ers’ decision to keep Harden at home raises the question of whether they want him to fully prepare or if they are trying to avoid distractions on the road. It also comes at a time when trade talks between the 76ers and the Los Angeles Clippers, Harden’s preferred destination, have reportedly been paused.
Harden’s offseason was filled with uncertainty and controversy. He exercised his $35.6 million player option with the expectation of being traded by the 76ers, but a trade never materialized. In August, while at an event in China, Harden called president of basketball operations Daryl Morey a “liar,” resulting in a $100,000 fine from the league.
Harden has expressed that his relationship with Morey cannot be salvaged, stating that the front office did not have plans for him in the team’s future.
Despite Harden staying at home, his future with the franchise will continue to be a topic of conversation until a resolution is reached. There is no escaping the speculation surrounding his status.
Head coach Nick Nurse, on the other hand, is focused on on-court matters and preparing for the team’s upcoming game. He expressed that his concerns are centered around the game and the team’s mental and physical preparation.
The 76ers’ home opener is scheduled for Sunday night when they will host the Portland Trail Blazers.