James Harden, Clippers agree to two-year deal

James Harden, Clippers agree to two-year deal

James Harden has agreed to a two-year, $70 million deal to stay with the Los Angeles Clippers, NBA insider Shams Charania of The Athletic was first to report just minutes before free agency on Sunday.

James Harden plans to sign a two-year, $70 million contract to return to the Los Angeles Clippers, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Harden’s agents – Mike Silverman, Troy Payne and Brandon Grier of Equity Sports – have been working with Clippers officials to finalize new deal. pic.twitter.com/dRYRS9roL9

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2024

Harden, who will turn 34-years-old in August, averaged 16.6 points, 5.1 rebounds and 8.5 assists per game after getting traded to the Clippers in November. He was not extension-eligible during the season, but the signs pointed to Harden returning over Paul George, who declined his player option on Saturday.

The Clippers are nearly $25 million under the first apron and over $35 million under the second apron with 10 players on their roster. Harden’s cap hit is expected to be roughly $33.7 million for the 2024-25 season, per Spotrac.

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If they choose to, they can now use their non-taxpayer mid-level exception plus their bi-annual exception, though using those results in them hard-capping themselves below the $178 million first apron. Who knows what they’re going to do with P.J. Tucker‘s $11.5 million … and they’re looking to find a new home for Russell Westbrook, to potentially free up even more space.

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This is a breaking news story. Stay tuned for updates.

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