The season didn’t end as James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers wanted.
They certainly did have another stellar regular season and pushed hard into the playoffs with hopes of making the Finals.
But they then ran into the Boston Celtics in the second round and collapsed in a pivotal Game 7.
Now everyone is expecting big changes within the team, including the possible departure of Harden.
According to NBA writer Keith Pompey, via NBACentral, Harden is expected to rejoin his old team, the Houston Rockets, this summer.
James Harden is expected to rejoin the Houston Rockets this summer, per @PompeyOnSixers pic.twitter.com/Y9rXYQFhWt
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) May 19, 2023
The rumor about Harden returning to the Rockets was floating around long before the 76ers faced disappointment in the playoffs.
Even when the Sixers were sitting toward the top of the Eastern Conference, inside reporting suggested that Harden wanted to head back to Texas.
He doesn’t seem to mind that the team is filled with young, unproven stars.
Instead, Harden wants to play ball by his own rules, especially under the leadership of new head coach Ime Udoka.
Last week, the Rockets received the fourth pick in the upcoming draft.
This means that they could land a promising rookie to play alongside Harden if he really does return to the team.
But perhaps they package that draft pick with some other assets in order to land an All-Star to bolster the roster with Harden.
The return of Harden to Houston will be very big news.
However, it might not be enough to get them back into the playoffs.
But with Harden back, Ukdoka coaching, and a few smart trades, the Rockets could come back next season.
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