James Harden trades? The Clippers are expected to go in the opposite direction before the deadline
The The Los Angeles Clippers were playing somewhat improved basketball of late, winning five straight games thanks in large part to some monster stat lines posted by Kawhi Leonard. The Clippers are still ten games under .500 and well below the playoff line in the Western Conference, but for the first time this season, there seems to be optimism around the team.
With the Clippers struggling to open the year, some expected the team might look to trade veterans like James Harden and accept renewal. However, a team mini-reversal can put that speculation pending.
“…The Clippers have no plans to hold a fire sale in the next five weeks,” reported Sam Amick of the Athletics. “With owner Steve Ballmer continuing his perpetual mandate to stay competitive, and no 2026 first-round pick to fuel the tanking business, the Clippers are looking to dig themselves out of this huge hole they’ve dug for themselves. Especially after this recent five-game winning streak has restored some inner hope.”
Amick also noted that “team and league sources say there are no signs yet that Harden wants out.”
If the Clippers were to trade Harden, he would likely have a number of suitors on the market, given that he continues to put up big numbers despite his advanced years.
For now, though, Los Angeles seems content to try to continue digging out of the huge hole they’ve dug themselves in the Western Conference.
If Kawhi Leonard can continue to put up 20-plus halves every night, that goal might not be too unrealistic after all.
Either way, the Clippers will next take over on New Year’s Day at home against the Utah Jazz. Tipoff for that game is set for 10:30 PM ET.
2025-12-31 17:54:00
