While on tour in China, Harden said shocking things about Morey.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski and Ramona Shelburne, the NBA has launched an enquiry into the substance of Philadelphia 76ers star James Harden’s outspoken criticism of team president Daryl Morey. Earlier this week, while on tour in China, Harden referred to Morey as a “liar” and declared that he would “never be a part of an organisation that he’s part of.”
The purpose of the league’s investigation is to determine whether Harden said he would start a holdout, which would be against the CBA, or if he was referring to prior contractual conversations that might show the franchise violated the salary cap.
James Harden: “Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of. Let me say that again: Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of.” pic.twitter.com/AmHJ0WwbF2
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 14, 2023
Harden allegedly insisted in private that his remarks were solely related to Morey’s decision to halt trade talks earlier this month and that, if required, he would report to training camp. If so, neither side would face punishment, although the investigation has only recently started.
It’s important to remember that the NBA looked into the Sixers last offseason for comparable issues following Harden’s signing of a two-year, $68.6 million contract that was team-friendly and allowed them to add PJ Tucker and Danuel House. The league took away two second-round selections from the Sixers for discussing contracts with Tucker and House before free agency, but they did not discover any evidence of a handshake agreement that Harden would be taken care of in the future for accepting less money.
ESPN reporting the NBA is investigating the James Harden-76ers situation.
Of course, Harden on Thursday told @KHOU he believes the relationship is beyond repair. https://t.co/qpj4CdSqjx
— Jason Bristol (@JBristolKHOU) August 19, 2023
Harden signed a two-year contract with a player option for the following season, and it was widely believed that he would exercise that option and sign with unrestricted free agency this summer. Instead, he made the decision to opt in while also requesting a trade. Harden wanted to join the Los Angeles Clippers, but negotiations between the parties failed to materialise. As a result, Morey called off the deal and told Harden to come to camp.
In response, Harden made remarks in China that shocked the NBA community. After arriving in Houston, he stirred up further controversy by responding, “I think so,” to the question of whether or not his relationship with Morey and the Sixers was irreparably damaged. Harden remarked, “I’ve been patient all summer.” For me, it’s just about focusing on what I can control and getting ready for this season.”
On October 3, the Sixers’ training camp will get under way ahead of a pivotal season for the team. It is uncertain whether Harden will attend.