LOS ANGELES – James Harden, a Los Angeles native and 10-time NBA All-Star, is set to rejoin the Clippers for an additional two seasons.
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic on Sunday, Harden’s representatives are finalizing a new $70 million deal with the Clippers.
Following a turbulent end to his time in Philadelphia and a memorable introductory press conference where he declared, “I’m not a system player, I am the system,” the point guard appears to have found satisfaction with his new team.
Los Angeles Clippers President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank mentioned in May that the team’s focus was on re-signing Paul George and James Harden.
The Clippers’ other key player, Kawhi Leonard, signed a significant three-year contract extension in January, and the team aimed to retain their “Big 3.”
Last season, Harden averaged 16.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game. Frank praised Harden for helping Ivica Zubac achieve his best season to date.
Harden’s health was crucial for the Clippers, and he disproved the notion that he underperforms in the playoffs. In the 2024 playoffs, he averaged 21.2 points, 8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds, delivering strong performances against the Dallas Mavericks, except for Game 5.
Despite the Clippers’ brief playoff run and the disappointment of not seeing Harden, Leonard, and George play together fully due to Leonard’s knee issues, Harden is now back as the team starts a new chapter with the opening of the Intuit Dome.
