James Harden. Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Report: 10-time All-Star 'wants to re-sign' with Clippers

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 5/6/24

James Harden is entering unrestricted free agency this summer. The veteran ball-handler, who will turn 35 next season, will undoubtedly have multiple offers on the table. Harden performed well after joining the LA Clippers early in the 2023-24 season.

Harden played in 72 regular season games, averaging 16.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 8.5 assists on 42.8 percent shooting from the field and 38.1 percent shooting from three-point range.

The Clippers reportedly want to re-sign Harden to a new contract. His impressive season with the franchise has likely convinced them he will be their point guard for the immediate future.

According to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto, Harden is widely expected to re-sign from the franchise.

"Ideally, Harden wants to re-sign with the Clippers this offseason, league sources told HoopsHype," Scotto reported. "The 10-time All-Star has enjoyed playing close to home, near his family, and remained a high-level player with the Clippers in his first season with the franchise. The feeling is mutual, as ESPN reported, with the Clippers hopeful to re-sign Harden this summer. Ultimately, many around the league expect Harden to remain a Clipper, and the only question is what type of contract the Clippers and Harden will agree upon."

Clippers forward PJ Tucker is expected to exercise his $11.54 million player option for the 2024-25 season, league sources told @hoopshype.

More Clippers reporting on free agency for Paul George and James Harden, and the futures of Ty Lue and management. https://t.co/XaTl4tSqFn
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) May 4, 2024

Harden's best chance of competing for a championship is likely to remain with the Clippers. He would share the court with Kawhi Leonard and potentially with Paul George, assuming he re-signs with the team during the summer. That trio could still contend for a championship if the front office adds youth to the rotation to support their aging legs.

Despite being in his mid-30s, Harden is still among the most talented scorers the NBA offers. His presence on the floor bends defenses and creates opportunities for his teammates. Harden has also continued to prove himself as an elite passer and playmaker this season.

Harden and the Clippers were a good fit for each other this season. It's only logical they're both interested in keeping that partnership going. However, their time together will only be a success if it ends in a championship.

More must-reads: