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James Harden’s comments on Daryl Morey start the epic Steven A. Mad Dog match
Returning Stephen A. Smith to “First Take” for an epic debate with Chris “Mad Dog” Russo about James Harden’s recent comments on 76ers executive Daryl Morey.
Asked by a KHOU 11 reporter in Houston Thursday if he thought his relationship with the 76ers could not be repaired, Harden replied, “I think so.”
“I’ve been patient all summer,” Harden said of his situation with the team. “For me, it’s just about what I can control and prepare for this season.”
His comments followed remarks on Monday at an Adidas media event in China, where Harden initially criticized Morey publicly.
“Daryl Morey is a liar, and I will never be part of an organization he is a part of,” Harden said Monday. “Let me say it again: Daryl Morey is a liar, and I will never be a part of an organization he is a part of.”
On Saturday, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski that the 76ers planned to bring Harden to training camp and the start of the season, creating an uncomfortable situation with the unhappy star.
Sources said Philadelphia has been in regular off-season talks with the Los Angeles Clippers – Harden’s desired destination – but no effect on the deal materialised.
The Sixers agreed to seek a trade at Harden’s request after he agreed to take the $35.6 million player option in June, but Philadelphia’s asking price was prohibitive, and no teams, including the Clippers, were willing or able to meet it. According to the sources. .
Sources said Harden’s dissatisfaction with Morey stems from the lack of a long-term display of maximum level, and the team risks the prospect of Harden arriving at training camp who brings nothing but a championship mentality.
Harden, who led the league last season, was in Houston ahead of the charity event he’s hosting this weekend. Harden spent more than eight seasons in Houston with the Rockets, where Morey was the general manager at the time.
Harden, the 2018 NBA Most Valuable Player, blossomed into a star with the Rockets until he wanted to trade to Brooklyn. In the end the Rockets agreed and shipped him to the Nets. When a Big Three championship with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving never really developed, Harden wanted a deal with the 76ers—in large part because of his strong professional and personal relationships with Morey.
Information from the Associated Press is used in this report.
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