The star James Harden assured this Wednesday that the Philadelphia 76ers have “the pieces” to fight for the NBA title after signing a new agreement to continue with the franchise.
“This is where I want to be. This is where I want to win and I think we have the pieces to achieve that goal,” said Harden, who agreed to a restructured two-year contract worth $68.6 million.
“Since my first day with the 76ers, the team and the fans have helped me feel at home here in Philadelphia. I’m excited to build on last season and can’t wait to get out on the court with the guys and start this journey.”
Harden, who joined the Sixers in February in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets, was the league MVP in 2018, and in 21 games last season with the 76ers he scored 442 points, and had 149 rebounds and 220 assists. .
Sixers coach Doc Rivers welcomed Harden’s decision to commit his future to the team.
“I couldn’t be happier with James’ decision to commit to our organization,” the coach said.
For his part, 76ers general manager Daryl Morey called Harden “one of the greatest players in NBA history and a future Hall of Famer.”
According to media sources, Harden will earn $33 million in the 2022-23 season in a deal that also includes a $35.6 million player option for 2023-24.
The Sixers fell to the Miami Heat in the second round (semifinals) of the last playoffs.
