Harden wanted to go to the Clippers before 2023-24, and it’s not impossible to think his opinion hasn’t changed.
The Clippers went 51-31 in 2023-24 and earned the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference. The playoff run was short lived, as the team fell in the first round to the Dallas Mavericks. Still, Harden could return to a team that still has Kawhi Leonard and is set to debut a new arena.
A return to Houston looked possible last offseason, so it’s safe to assume it could happen once again. The Rockets are a new team after going 41-41 a season ago and Harden could be the piece that sparks some nostalgia and helps the team return to the playoffs.
Toronto had a down year in 2023-24, going 25-57. This came after the team saw OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam and Fred VanVleet depart for brighter pastures, but Scottie Barnes is an intriguing piece that Harden could help develop. Additionally, Toronto could offer a lucrative deal and Harden could leave the loaded Western Conference.