Sixers' James Harden intends to decline player option, seek long-term deal as free agent: report

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Ten-time NBA All-Star James Harden could again be on the move. 

Harden intends to decline his $35.6 million player option with the Philadelphia 76ers to secure a long-term deal as an unrestricted free agent, according to Bleacher Report. 

James Harden (1) and Joel Embiid (21) of the Philadelphia 76ers talk during the third quarter in Game 6 of the 2023 Eastern Conference semifinals at Wells Fargo Center May 11, 2023, in Philadelphia.  (Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Harden will be seeking a four-year deal after taking a pay cut last season for Philadelphia to build the surrounding roster, per the report. 

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While Harden’s former team, the Houston Rockets, has been rumored to be a team of interest, Harden will "only entertain suitors that present a competitive roster and the basketball freedom for the star to be himself." 

The Rockets were tied for the worst record in the Western Conference last season, finishing the year 22-60.

The Sixers are coming off a third consecutive loss in the second round of the NBA Playoffs, losing to the Boston Celtics in Game 7 and failing to reach the conference finals for the 22nd consecutive year. 

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While Harden had two marvelous games in the series, he struggled in games six and seven, shooting 7-27 combined as the Sixers blew a 3-2 series lead. 

James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers prepares to shoot a free throw against the Boston Celtics during Game 6 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference semifinals May 11, 2023, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia