Harden Locked in Philly

07/21/2022 Harden Locked in Philly

By: Jeff Yoder

76ers Sign James Harden to 2-Year, $68.6 Million Deal

The Beard is staying in Philly! After declining a $47.3 million player option for the upcoming season, Harden re-signed with the 76ers on a 2-year, $68.6 million contract Wednesday. That means he’ll take an annual pay cut of around $14 million to aid Philadelphia in signing free agents to build the roster. It’s a selfless move for the Sixers’ star who put his money where his mouth is after stating his desire to win.

 

What It Means

The contract means Philly now has Harden and Joel Embiid under contract through this season with the wiggle room to improve the roster and take advantage of their championship window. With Doc Rivers at the helm, the 76ers are very much in “win now” mode. Harden’s contract maneuvering gives them the cap space to improve the roster and take a shot another shot at a title before Embiid becomes a free agent in 2023.

 

Additional Storylines

NY Post: James Harden Takes Sizable Pay Cut With 76ers

ESPN: Harden Stays In Philly: Breaking Down What It Means

 

Photo: Mitchell Leff / Getty Images