One of the NBA’s top point guards, James Harden, has decided to remain with his current team, the LA Clippers.
ESPN reported on June 30 that the Clippers signed a two-year free-agent contract with Harden for $70 million. Harden started his professional career with the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2009 and reached his prime after moving to the Houston Rockets in October 2012.
During his time in Houston, he was selected for the All-Star game eight times, was the top scorer for three consecutive years, and was chosen as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2018.
However, due to coexistence issues with Chris Paul and Russell Westbrook, he left Houston and joined the LA Clippers in November 2023 after stints with the Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers. Initially struggling to adapt to the Clippers, Harden gradually regained his form and helped the team secure the 4th seed in the Western Conference.
Last season, Harden averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game. His shooting success rate was 54%, and his three-point shooting success rate was 41%.
Despite being eliminated in the first round of the playoffs, Harden’s presence in the team was significant. In the end, the Clippers organization chose to continue with Harden.
A Clippers representative said, “We think Harden is an exceptional player. He had an amazing season,” expressing their anticipation by adding, “He continues to work out at the club during the off-season and is consistently performing well.”