The Los Angeles Clippers could endure a busy offseason if they decide it’s time to adjust their roster.
In a notable move, the franchise could send its 6-foot-5 superstar guard to the Minnesota Timberwolves and surprise the NBA.
“The Timberwolves are still in flux after trading Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks before the season,” Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus wrote Friday.
“(Julius) Randle will probably opt in at $30.9 million, leaving little flexibility if Minnesota prioritizes (Naz) Reid and (Nickeil) Alexander-Walker (as expected). Since (Mike) Conley is slowing down, that could push the team to move Randle, presumably for a point guard.”
“(James) Harden is also an older player; he’s a former MVP and returned to All-Star status with the LA Clippers this season. LA may not want to go in a different direction, but the Wolves can try to make something happen.”
Not too long ago, Harden, a ball-handling wizard known for regularly embarrassing defenders on the perimeter, was doing the unthinkable with the Houston Rockets.
The 11-time All-Star averaged 30+ points per contest during three of his final four seasons as a Rocket. Although Houston fell short in the postseason several times, it would be preposterous to suggest that Harden is far from a franchise legend.
At age 35, Harden has lost a step or two on the hardwood but is still enjoying an impactful 2024-25 campaign alongside Kawhi Leonard.
The Arizona product averages 22.4 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game, shooting 39.5% from the field and 34.3% from deep on a Clippers squad capable of sneaking into the postseason.
With Harden helping Los Angeles remain competitive despite having less talent than several Western Conference clubs, it’s challenging to envision the Clippers parting ways with him anytime soon.
However, shocking blockbuster trades are never out of the realm of possibility in today’s NBA.
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