08-14-2023, 08:52 AM
(08-14-2023, 08:38 AM)Chicagojk Wrote: Really interested to see how this plays out. Morey won’t move Harden unless he gets a deal he feels like he is the winner. He is also going to value Harden as a top 20 player…which he probably isn’t at any longer. Not sure how this plays out. Especially with a guy who has quit on two teams and has now made it known Philly is DOA.
I always thought there was maybe a broken promise. But on the other hand, shame on Harden for giving Morey the power by opting in. I thought after the initial trade talk quieted down that Morey would bring back Harden and play out the year. I believe with Harden and Harris expiring that Philly could have huge cap room next summer. I thought that was going to be Morey’s last ditch effort to build a team around Embid. The tricky part (besides how Harden takes this) is how Maxey responds. Philly has every right not to extend Maxey now. But there is also a personal piece in this. Maxey has earned an extension. If they are not having any conversations because Morey wants flexibility, than this could be something that causes bad feelings.
This is the new situation with superstar players.
In the past, the player could choose either the biggest money (from their existing team), or their desired destination (but with lower dollars).
Now, they will sign the contract that gives them the highest dollars, but then demand a trade to their desired destination. And if that trade isn't forthcoming, then play at about 60% effort - enough to continue to cash paychecks, but not enough to actually help their team.
Harden's a selfish player.