NBA insider Jake Fischer reported on Tuesday that the Los Angeles Clippers are pushing back on the idea that James Harden or Kawhi Leonard will be made available (subscription required) before the Feb. 5 deadline. Of course, that could change between now and then, as that date is still over six weeks away.
Marc Stein initially reported that teams were expecting the Clippers to make Harden available, given that the squad sits at the bottom of the West. Harden is averaging 25.8 points (his most since his last full season in Houston), 8.2 assists, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game, shooting 43.3% from the field and 37.3% from three.
The 36-year-old is making $39.1 million this season and has a $42.3 million player option for the 2026-27 season. Harden doesn’t have a no-trade clause, but he does have the right to veto a deal since he re-signed with the Clippers over the offseason to a two-year contract with an option in the second season.
There are a few teams that should be in the market for a point guard, and Harden is a proven player who can help a team make a playoff run. The issue is, at least right now, that the Clippers aren’t willing to part ways with him. Considering how bleak their future looks, the front office should capitalize on the chatter surrounding the star point guard and get something of value in return.
Clippers reportedly not willing to trade James Harden or Kawhi Leonard
Kawhi’s case is different than Harden’s, as not only is his injury history concerning, but the Aspiration tree-sized cloud is still hanging over the organization. No matter how good he can be when he’s healthy, the league will need to give a verdict before any team thinks about pursuing him. Then, there is his contract: he’s making $50 million this season and will make $50.3 million next season.
Those are reasons why you’ve heard more about a Harden trade than a Kawhi one.
Although Los Angeles started the season with championship aspirations, it became evident weeks ago that the team wouldn’t come close to hanging a banner. The Clippers have won only seven games this season, and if it weren’t for the 7-22 Kings, they’d have the worst record in the West.
The front office seems to be holding on to the hope that maybe LA can turn things around, but that shouldn’t be a stance it keeps. Trading Harden isn’t the outcome the Clippers want, but it’s the route they need to take. Now, let’s hope they don’t mess this up.