Published 10:47 IST, January 15th 2021
Was the James Harden trade to Nets discussed with superstar Kevin Durant 'months ago'?
According to recent reports, the James Harden trade – including countless rumours & speculations – was already discussed by the teams months before it was done.
- SportFit
- 3 min read
Last year, Kevin Durant was asked about the apparent James Harden trade. The two-time NBA champion refused to answer the question directly, even denying the 'rumours' when talking to the press. Reports even spoke about Durant's opinion, noting how the 2014 NBA MVP was apparently against the trade, not wanting to play with Harden as his teammate. Now, after the trade was finalized, reports are mentioning how a trade was already discussed months ago.
Also read | James Harden trade details: All-Star signs for Nets, Oladipo-LeVert swapped in epic trade
James Harden trade to the Nets was discussed months ago?
On Wednesday, the Brooklyn Nets announced a blockbuster deal that sent Harden to play with Kevin Durant. However, as explained by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the trade was something Durant had "very much wanted". Former teammates at the Oklahoma City Thunder, the duo make one of the best offensive combinations in the league – making them title contenders for the 2020-21 season.
"He and Harden started talking about this months ago," Wojranowski explained.
Did James Harden and Kevin Durant want to play together?
While reports state otherwise right now, earlier rumours hinted at Durant not wanting to play with Harden. When he was asked about the same, Durant had denied trade rumours, starting how Harden is a friend of his, and he leaves such decisions to the front office. That being said, November 2020 reports hinted at a deal that was somewhat finalized. Per reports, the teams had a verbal agreement over the deal, which was to help Harden get out of Houston.
Also read | James Harden Nets trade: Houston car wash offers 'free service' in exchange of old JH13 jerseys
When is James Harden Nets debut?
As per The Association's Anthony Puccio, the Nets are hoping to include Harden in Saturday's (Sunday IST) lineup against the Orlando Magic. However, Harden will need to get COVID-19 tests done before he plays for the team. If he tests negative, he could make his Nets debut soon.
Also read | James Harden likes IG post on Houston strippers suffering financial hit after Nets trade
Brooklyn Nets roster 2021
- Bruce Brown, SG
- Chris Chiozza, PG
- Spencer Dinwiddie, PG
- Kevin Durant, PF
- Jeff Green, PF
- James Harden, SG
- Joe Harris, SF
- Kyrie Irving, PG
- Tyler Johnson, SG
- DeAndre Jordan, C
- Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot, SG
- Reggie Perry, PF
- Landry Shamet, SG
(Image credits: Brooklyn Nets Instagram)
Updated 10:47 IST, January 15th 2021