Sports writer Daryl Turner discusses predictions for the 76ers’ season with Harden.
Everybody has been waiting patiently to see James Harden in action after the blockbuster trade that just happened before the All-Star break. This trade consisted of James Harden going to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, Andre Drummond and two draft picks. Now, some would say that trade was giving away a lot in exchange for the former MVP, based on how his play was in Brooklyn, where — according to ESPN — he averaged 22.5 points per game along with eight rebounds and 10.2 assists. Considering all the 76ers gave up, him playing as average as that will not bode well for the future of the 76ers organization. That is why Harden’s debut on Feb. 25, 2022 for the 76ers will be something to definitely check out. Although one game will not determine if Harden can prove himself worthy of that trade, it would be a good indicator in terms of how well he can possibly mix with the team before playoffs. Speaking of playoffs, that is one area that Harden has still yet to consistently show up in all his time in the NBA. The former MVP has never made it past the conference finals, but will look to change that in Philly.
For right now, Joel Embiid has carried the 76ers on his back the entire season, playing at a remarkable MVP level, dominating almost every game. Embiid averages 29.6 points per game along with 11.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists, and is one of, if not the most, dynamic big men in the league today. When Embiid was asked about Harden joining the team by Bleacher Report, he said, “We can actually accomplish something big. We already have a great system in place.When you add James it takes you to another level.” The dynamic duo makes their debut on Friday against the Timberwolves, who are led by the young superstar Anthony Edwards and elite all-star big man Karl Anthony Towns.
Daryl Morey, the 76ers president of basketball operations, personally sought to bring Harden to Philadelphia and play for the team. If this doesn’t work out, there will be multiple people to blame, but the main person that has control over how well this could potentially go is Harden. Luckily, the world gets the first chance on Friday to see how James Harden can make this team as good as people expect them to be. For Philadelphia, losing Ben Simmons didn’t really mean anything to them, but with Seth Curry being one of the best shooters in the league and Andre Drummond one of the best rebounders in the game, they really gave up a lot. Can Harden make up for all the talent they lost? Or will Philly keep getting carried on Embiid’s back for the remainder of the season with Harden acting as non-existent as Ben Simmons was? Only time will tell and it’s coming up soon.