James Harden Misses 76ers’ First Day of Practice, But Expected to Arrive at Training Camp Any Day: Report

Philadelphia 76ers star guard James Harden missed the team's first practice in Colorado on Tuesday, but its expected to be arriving as soon as Tuesday to join for the remainder of training camp, per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

Harden requested a trade in July. When it was originally denied, he publicly criticized 76ers president Daryl Morey, calling him a "liar" and stating that he "will never be a part of an organization that [Morey] is a part of." Harden was fined $10,000 for his comments.

When Harden didn't show up for media day at the team's facility in Philadelphia on Monday, it was suspected to be another push for Philadelphia to find a trade deal, but it appears Harden may be willing to participate in the meantime.

Harden picked up a $36.5 million player option during the offseason in hopes the 76ers would trade him, specifically to the Los Angeles Clippers. ESPN reported that the two teams have talked, but "there's been no traction on a deal."

The 34-year-old is entering his 16th season in the league and if a trade ends up happening, he will be playing for his fifth team this season. For his career, Harden has averaged 24.7 points seven assists and 5.6 rebounds per game. In each of his two seasons with Philadelphia, the 10-time NBA All-Star has averaged 21 points -- his lowest since becoming a consistent starter for the Houston Rockets during the 2012-13 season.

Harden was named MVP in 2018 after averaging 36.1 points, 7.5 assists and 6.6 rebounds. He is also third all-time on the three-pointers made list with 2,754 after passing Reggie Miller at 2,560 during the 2021-22 season.