The NBA will investigate whether the Sixers evaded league rules with several free agents, including James Harden.
Philadelphia (AP) The Philadelphia 76ers are being investigated by the NBA for possible tampering with offseason free agency moves involving James Harden, PJ Tucker and Danuel House, a person familiar with the matter said Friday. He told the Associated Press late at night.
The person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing, said the team is cooperating with the investigation.
Harden signed a deal worth just over $68 million, paying around $33 million this season with a $35 million player option for the 2023-24 season. However, Harden will make about $14.5 million less this season than he could have earned on his previous deal. Harden had a $47.4 million option for this season, but he declined, saying he wanted the 76ers to improve their roster and give them the flexibility to fight for the championship.
ESPN reported on Friday that there were questions about Harden and the Sixers “shaking hands on a future contract.”
In an interview with the Associated Press earlier this month, Harden said, “This year I think signing for less money will help us compete and get as many players as we need to be on the last team. “To the organization, to the Sixers fans, and to everyone who supports what we’re trying to achieve and what I’m personally trying to achieve, this is my purpose.” I wanted to show you.”
Tucker signed a three-year, $30 million deal and House signed a two-year, $8.4 million deal. The Sixers were able to sign Tucker to a full midlevel exception and House to a semi-annual exception because Harden rejected his option.
Had Harden opted in before the June 30 deadline, Philadelphia would have had a much harder time finding an economic route to acquiring free agency.
NBA approves tougher penalties for tampering in 2019, Chicago Bulls for early contact with Lonzo Ball, Miami Heat draft pick for doing the same with Kyle Lowry in summer 2021 deprived of the
