James Harden Re-Signs With Clippers: Full Contract Details

Before Paul George departed the Los Angeles Clippers to join the Philadelphia 76ers, James Harden quickly committed to return to the team to play alongside Kawhi Leonard after NBA free agency opened.

According to ESPN, Harden plans to sign a two-year contract worth $70 million. The agreement was reached quickly after free agency opened amid George’s uncertain. George ultimately departed.

Harden was traded to the Clippers in late October and proved to be crucial in turning the team’s season around. After a 3-7 record through 10 games, the Clippers held a 34-15 record by early February with Harden’s offensive impact being key.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers Updates

Harden frequently expressed his joy about playing in his hometown throughout the season and will get to continue to do so. He averaged 16.6 points and 8.5 assists in 72 games for the Clippers last season, but will take on an even greater role offensively with George no longer a member of the team coupled with Russell Westbrook likely being traded.

Harden proved to be durable last season as well, appearing in 72 games—the most he’s played in a single season since 2018-19. With Leonard limited and largely sidelined against the Dallas Mavericks in the Clippers’ first-round playoff series, Harden averaged 21.2 points and 8.0 assists, showcasing he can still gear up and make a dynamic impact.

Although Harden’s scoring numbers dipped alongside Kawhi Leonard and George, he provided a needed facilitation presence, pick-and-roll creation, and isolation scoring while being an impactful three-point shooter. Again, with George no longer with the team, Harden will surely be leaned on to make more plays.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers Updates

Harden’s move to the Clippers followed a highly publicized fallout with 76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey over contractual disputes last summer. This marked Harden’s third team change in under three years after his long tenure with the Houston Rockets. Meanwhile, the Sixers now pry away a superstar in George with the Clippers having to deal with the second apron.

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