The last domino of the 76ers free agency puzzle dropped as James Harden officially remained with the team for the next two seasons. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported the 10-time All-Star and 2017-18 league MVP agreed to a two-year, $68.6 million deal.
He will have a player option in the second season, as he took a pay cut to help Daryl Morey improve the team with trades and free agent signings. He turned down a $47.4 million player option for 2022-23 and will make $33 million during the upcoming campaign.
“This is where I want to be. This is where I want to win, and I think we have the pieces to accomplish that goal,” Harden said in a statement Wednesday after signing his new contract with Philadelphia.
“From my first day with the 76ers organization, the team and the fans have helped me feel at home here in Philadelphia. I’m excited to build off of last season and I can’t wait to get out on the court with the guys and start this journey.”
The Sixers are craving for a deep playoff run and they hope Harden will help the franchise realize its potential. The last time the 76ers advanced past the second round of the playoffs was when Allen Iverson was an MVP and led the team to the NBA Finals.
Anything less than that next season will be a disappointment for the franchise, which bolster its depth with the additions of PJ Tucker, Danue House and De’Anthony Melton this offseason.
