According to reports from NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, the Minnesota Timberwolves and Atlanta Hawks are not expected to pursue a trade for LA Clippers star James Harden.
This comes after Tomer Azarly reported on Monday that Anthony Edwards’ Timberwolves, New Orleans Pelicans and Toronto Raptors had expressed interest in trading for Harden. The report also stated that the former MVP does not wish to play for either team.
Harden has been key for the Clippers this season, averaging 25.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 8.1 assists per game, shooting 41.9%. Both sides are reportedly working together to find a new team for the player ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline.
It is also being reported that the Cleveland Cavaliers have had advanced discussions about acquiring James Harden in a deal centered around guard Darius Garland.
The 26-year-old guard is averaging 18.0 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 6.9 apg for the Cavaliers this season. Flipping Harden, who is 36 and on an expiring deal for a young guard with room to grow, could be a favorable move for the team.
Kawhi Leonard expresses trust in Clippers front office amid James Harden trade talk
The LA Clippers were 6-21 during the early stages of the season but have turned things around, going 15-5 in their last 20 games. The team has shown a significant improvement, climbing to ninth place in the Western Conference.
With the Clippers in such good form, the sudden development regarding Harden’s future with the team has left many in shock. Speaking on the trade reports on Monday, Kawhi Leonard kept it short and expressed confidence in the team’s front office.
“I have no comment on it,” Leonard said. “I respect his decision, or whoever’s decision it is. That’s it. He’s still going to be my boy. I trust the front office.”
Leonard has been the driving force behind the team’s turnaround this season and is averaging 27.6 ppg, 6.2 rpg and 3.6 apg. Despite his stellar production, he was not selected to this year’s All-Star team.
Wednesday’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers could look very different if both sides find common ground on a deal by then.
Read More: James Harden Contract: Every Key Detail to Know Ahead of Potential Trade to Cavs For Darius Garland
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