The NBA is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding James Harden’s absence from the Philadelphia 76ers’ season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks. This has raised questions about the implementation of the NBA’s new star rest policy, which requires teams to make their star players available for nationally televised games. NBA spokesperson Mike Bass stated that the league is working to determine whether there is an approved reason for Harden’s lack of participation.
Harden, who is 34 years old, did not participate in any of Philadelphia’s preseason games and only took part in one five-on-five live competition during training camp. League sources revealed earlier in the week that Harden had returned to Philadelphia with his bags packed, intending to join the team on their road trip. However, the 76ers asked him not to travel with the team. Reports from The Athletic indicate that trade talks between the 76ers and the Los Angeles Clippers involving Harden are still ongoing.
Throughout the summer, Harden expressed his desire not to play for the 76ers and requested a trade to the Clippers. He opted into his $35.6 million deal in August to facilitate a trade out of Philadelphia. Tensions escalated when Harden called president of basketball operations Daryl Morey a “liar” during a marketing event in China after the 76ers decided to end trade talks. Harden made it clear that he would never be a part of an organization that Morey was a part of.
As a result of his comments, the NBA launched an inquiry and fined Harden $100,000 for his public trade demands. The National Basketball Players Association stated that it would file a grievance regarding the discipline. Despite the controversy, Harden had an impressive season last year, averaging 21 points, 10.7 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game. He played a crucial role in helping the 76ers reach the Eastern Conference semifinals, although they ultimately lost to the Boston Celtics in seven games. Harden will become a free agent next summer.
In light of these developments, the NBA’s investigation into Harden’s absence from the season opener is crucial. The league’s new star rest policy aims to ensure that star players are available for nationally televised games, as well as the In-Season Tournament. By enforcing this policy, the NBA hopes to maintain the integrity of the game and provide fans with the opportunity to watch their favorite players in action.
The investigation will determine whether there is a valid reason for Harden’s absence. The 76ers have listed him as out and not with the team due to “return to competition reconditioning” on the injury report. However, it remains to be seen whether this reason will be deemed acceptable by the league.
The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for both the 76ers and Harden. If the league finds that there was no approved reason for his absence, there may be consequences for the team, such as fines or other disciplinary measures. Additionally, Harden’s future with the 76ers could be further complicated if trade talks with the Clippers continue.
Fans and analysts will be eagerly awaiting the NBA’s findings and any subsequent actions taken. The league’s star rest policy is an important step towards ensuring fairness and transparency in the game. It is essential for teams to adhere to these guidelines to maintain the integrity of the sport and provide fans with the best possible experience.
As the investigation unfolds, it is clear that there are still many unanswered questions surrounding James Harden’s absence from the 76ers’ season opener. The NBA’s decision will undoubtedly have a significant impact on both Harden’s future and the implementation of the star rest policy moving forward. Basketball fans around the world will be eagerly awaiting the league’s findings and any potential repercussions that may follow.