New Report: NBA Executives Certain Of James Harden’s Next Move

Now that the Philadelphia 76ers are done for the year, the James Harden Saga is now in overdrive. And according to a new report from the most plugged-in Sixers Insider, Harden's destination in free agency this summer is almost cast in stone. NBA Executives fully expect that Harden will sign back in Houston.

James Harden is expected to rejoin the Houston Rockets this summer, per @PompeyOnSixers pic.twitter.com/Y9rXYQFhWt

— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) May 19, 2023

"There’s mutual interest between the (Houston) Rockets and Harden," writes Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer. The former All-Star's return to the Rockets has been rumored for months now, but this new report means that there's serious fire behind all the smoke. 

The belief among NBA executives is that James Harden will rejoin the Houston Rockets this summer... Sources have said his interest in returning to Houston is mutual and not a ploy to get a lucrative deal out of the Sixers.

In fact, during their head coaching interviews before hiring Ime Udoka, the Rockets made it clear to prospective coaches that Harden would be part of their roster.

The Rockets reportedly asked head coaching candidates for their opinions on James Harden during the interview process before hiring Ime Udoka, per @PompeyOnSixers pic.twitter.com/OuhmHmibIG

— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) May 19, 2023

Before hiring Ime Udoka on April 25, head coaching candidates were asked for their opinion on coaching Harden during the interview process, according to sources.

Harden exploded into superstar status in Houston, emerging as an All-Star in each of his 8+ years there, while leading the league in scoring three straight seasons. 

He still has a home in Houston, and has professed his love for the city and the team on numerous occasions. 

Free agency (supposedly) begins on June 30th, though it appears some decisions are already being made. 

Photo: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports