Reports: Details What Exactly James Harden Meant When He Called GM Daryl Morey A ‘Liar’

According to Adrian Wojnarowski and Ramona Shelburne, the NBA has launched an inquiry into the substance of Philadelphia 76ers player James Harden’s outspoken criticism of team president Daryl Morey. Earlier this week, while on tour in China, Harden referred to Morey as a “liar” and declared that he would “never be a part of an organization that he’s part of.”

Reports: Details What Exactly James Harden Meant When He Called GM Daryl Morey A ‘Liar’

The purpose of the league’s investigation is to establish whether James said he would start a holdout, which would be against the CBA, or whether he was referring to prior contractual conversations that might show the franchise violated the salary cap.

“As part of NBA probe into his “liar” comment, James told league investigators he was referring to Daryl Morey telling Harden he will trade him “quickly” following the $35.6 million opt-in for 2023-24, per sources. The 76ers’ stance now is they expect to keep Harden.” According to Charania.

James demanded a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers, ideally to the Los Angeles Clippers, despite opting into a $35.6 million contract this season. However, league sources tell NBC Sports that the 76ers did engage a number of clubs in Harden trade negotiations this summer, including the Clippers. It is debatable how aggressively Morey truly pursued a deal.

Teams kept their bids modest because Morey maintained the asking price for James high — an All-Star level player or enough picks and assets to turn him into one — and because Harden was entering the last year of his contract and seeking his next sizable paycheck. At Morey’s asking price, Harden is not in demand. So the 76ers leaked they were ending trade discussions and  expected Harden to attend training camp. Soon after came Harden calling Morey a liar.

When the Sixers couldn’t find a good return for the star, everything changed. Both parties now seem to be at a standstill. Harden won’t be dealt by Philadelphia at a loss. Additionally, Harden apparently plans to wait to be dealt.

James may risk losing his right to sign a free agent deal next summer if he violates a provision of the NBA’s current CBA, according to that regulation.

 

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