Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden looks to be back with the team for another season. Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

James Harden taking $15M pay cut for upcoming season, plans to sign two-year deal with player option

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 7/8/22

James Harden declined his $47.3 million option for the 2022-2023 season in late June, but all indications have been pointing to him remaining with the Philadelphia 76ers.

Shams Charania of The Athletic had an update regarding the matter on Friday afternoon.

Everyone around Harden has understood the focus on his workout regimen this offseason and a championship goal for 2022-23. His close relationships with those around the organization, including Michael Rubin and Daryl Morey, played a major role in trust between the two sides. https://t.co/q1eDY9xrDy
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 8, 2022

Harden was traded from the Brooklyn Nets to Philadelphia in a blockbuster deal in February that saw enigmatic point guard Ben Simmons head to the Big Apple. Teaming up with MVP runner-up Joel Embiid, Harden and the Sixers advanced to the Eastern Conference semifinals before falling to the Miami Heat.

According to multiple reports, Philadelphia is focused on building a championship contender surrounding Harden, Embiid and breakout guard Tyrese Maxey.

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