James Harden remains in Houston while skipping media day with the Philadelphia 76ers and their subsequent flight to Fort Collins, Colorado. Harden had interest in returning to the Houston Rockets this offseason, but their interest is believed to have diminished after hiring Ime Udoka as head coach.
Harden is seeking a trade from the Sixers with the Los Angeles Clippers his preferred destination. Harden opted into his $35.6 million contract with the Sixers in June with the expectation he would be traded. The Sixers have continued to hold out for more draft capital than the Clippers have so far been willing to offer.
Harden will be ineligible for free agency in 2024 if he withholds his services for 30 or more days, which has led many to hold the expectation that he will eventually report to the Sixers.
As expected, new Golden State Warriors guard Chris Paul was asked at Media Day if it matters to him if he starts or not. Paul was diplomatic in his answer, while reminding everyone that came off the bench for Team USA at the 2008 Olympics.
“I think anybody who knows me knows I’m all about winning,” Paul said. “Whatever I can do to help our team win. I know Coach (Steve Kerr) and us, we are going to talk about it and see what he likes. We’ve been hooping all summer. I think for the season it’s going to be whatever to help our team win, and I think I’ve at least tried to show or prove that my entire career.”
After so many battles against the Warriors throughout his career, Paul never expected to suit up with them. But he’s making the most of the opportunity to be a part of competing for a title.
“I’ve got a friend who always says, ‘When everybody does a little, no one has to do a lot,'” Paul said. “That’s what I hope to bring to this team.”
Reggie Bullock plans to sign with the Houston Rockets. Bullock was recently waived by the San Antonio Spurs. San Antonio had acquired Bullock in a salary-clearing move from the Dallas Mavericks. That trade brought Grant Williams to the Mavs from the Boston Celtics.
Bullock is a career 38.4% three-point shooter. He’s also a solid defender on the wing. The Rockets have made several veteran signings this summer, including Fred VanVleet, Dillon Brooks, Jeff Green and Jock Landale. Houston is hoping the veterans will allow new head coach Ime Udoka to lift and otherwise young team into playoff contention.
