Here’s a sentiment you’ve heard before: James Harden is thrilled to be joining a new team.
Now, let’s see how long it lasts.
Harden, who seemingly can’t go more than a season or two before wanting to go to a new team, is “ecstatic” to join the Clippers following the blockbuster trade that sent the mercurial guard from the 76ers to a Los Angeles squad featuring Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and Russell Westbrook, per ESPN.
The guard is hoping to fly to Los Angeles as soon as possible and could be present for the Clippers’ home game Tuesday against the Magic, according to the report.
Harden has essentially become the NBA’s version of Goldilocks in recent years since it seems that each situation just isn’t quite right for him.
The Clippers are his fourth team in less than 36 months.
The 34-year-old forced his way out of Houston in 2021 to join Brooklyn and form a Big 3 alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.
That trio did not bring Brooklyn to the promised land – or even the Eastern Conference Finals – and Harden again wanted out.
He landed last February in Philadelphia with his former Rockets general manager, Daryl Morey, and Harden could not help the 76ers get past the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Harden then started the ball rolling on another potential trade by saying he would never again play for Morey, whom he called a liar, and he set his sights on the Clippers.
The teams finally came to terms on a deal early Tuesday morning that will send Harden, PJ Tucker and Filip Petrusev to the Clippers for two first-round picks, two second-round picks, a pick swap and four players, including Nic Batum and Robert Covington, according to ESPN.
While Harden has never reached the NBA Finals, the Clippers are hoping he will fit in alongside Leonard, George and former teammate Westbrook.
Leonard and George are great when healthy, but have struggled to stay on the court together. Adding Harden provides star power to help offset the games those two will miss.