The Los Angeles Clippers plan to retain James Harden this offseason despite the guard approaching his mid-30s. Harden, who recently earned an All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA third team, remains a key player for the Clippers as they consider strengthening their roster further.
Although Harden holds a player option and could test free agency, multiple sources suggest he will continue with Los Angeles. NBA Insider Jake Fischer noted on The Stein Line that Harden is anticipated to remain with the Clippers.
The Clippers’ James Harden, Dallas’ Kyrie Irving and the Lakers’ LeBron James all have the ability to become free agents in late June, but all three are widely expected to remain with their current clubs,
Fischer wrote.
Clippers’ Interest in Adding Jrue Holiday as Backcourt Support
With Harden likely staying in LA, the Clippers are exploring options to enhance their backcourt. Brian Robb from MassLive reported that Los Angeles is one of several teams interested in acquiring Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday this offseason.
Holiday is expected to be pursued by several teams on the trade market, and a league source tells MassLive that the Los Angeles Clippers are one team expected to show interest in the 34-year-old guard this offseason,
Robb wrote.
The Clippers had previously targeted Holiday about two years ago, but the Celtics won the bidding at that time following Holiday’s trade from the Portland Trail Blazers. Now, with the Celtics aiming to reduce payroll, the possibility of a trade involving Holiday has resurfaced.
Robb suggested that Boston could seek a trade package including Bogdan Bogdanovic, Drew Eubanks, and either Jordan Miller or Cam Christie to balance salaries. The Celtics might also request Kris Dunn, a player with past ties to their roster, to complete a deal.
Trade Prospects Signal Possible Shift in Celtics’ Roster Strategy
The pursuit of Jrue Holiday by the Clippers underscores a potential shift in the Celtics’ roster construction as they balance talent and cost considerations. Should the trade materialize, it would mark a significant move for the Clippers, pairing Harden with another veteran guard to bolster their championship aspirations.
Retaining Harden and acquiring Holiday would strengthen Los Angeles’ backcourt depth and could improve their competitive edge in the coming NBA season. Both moves indicate the Clippers’ commitment to building a strong core despite Harden’s advancing age.