James Harden has reportedly decided to decline his $36.35 million player option for the 2025-26 season, setting the stage for him to become an unrestricted free agent. This decision, made ahead of the free agency period that begins in less than 48 hours, places Harden’s future with the Los Angeles Clippers in question while opening new possibilities for the team’s roster construction going forward.

Despite being 35 years old, Harden continues to deliver strong performances on both ends of the floor, averaging 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game this season. His continued productivity keeps him valuable in the market, and the Clippers organization has expressed clear interest in retaining the 2018 MVP. Concurrently, the team is exploring options that could reshape its core, including pursuing Boston Celtics rising star Anfernee Simons.

Harden’s Free Agency Decision Creates Uncertainty But Clippers Prioritize His Return

Sources close to Harden have indicated he is trending towards rejecting the player option, allowing him to enter free agency without restrictions. This move gives Harden job security on his terms, enabling him to negotiate with any franchise, including the Clippers. According to reports, the Clippers’ leadership remains focused on bringing Harden back, viewing him as a cornerstone for their future ambitions.

Lawrence Frank, President of Basketball Operations for the Clippers, confirmed the team‘s engagement with Harden following the NBA Finals. Frank emphasized Harden’s importance to the franchise, stating,

“We were able to formally engage with James once the finals ended. He’s our No. 1 priority. We’re super hopeful that James is here, and he’s here for a long time. But yet, at the same time, we always respect that he has a player option. So he can opt in, and obviously, we’re super, super excited with that. Or he can opt out, and hopefully we can do a deal that makes sense for both sides.”

—Lawrence Frank, President of Basketball Operations, Los Angeles Clippers

Fans and analysts have speculated about Harden’s motivations, with some suggesting he may have declined the option to allow the Clippers more salary flexibility. According to NBA analyst Tobias Barkley, Harden’s decision could mirror moves by other stars, such as Jalen Brunson, who accepted less money to facilitate team improvements. This approach could position the Clippers to acquire additional key players while keeping Harden at the core.

Salary Space from Harden’s Decision Opens Door for Acquiring Celtics’ Anfernee Simons

The Clippers’ playoff struggles in recent years have intensified pressure on the front office to upgrade the roster. After failing to advance beyond the first round for three consecutive seasons, and with their only Conference Finals appearance dating back to 2020-21, Los Angeles is motivated to break this pattern. The departure of Paul George has left a significant scoring void, which the organization hopes to address.

One target emerging from trade rumors is Boston Celtics guard Anfernee Simons, a proven offensive weapon with an expiring contract worth $27.7 million. Recent reports suggest the Celtics are evaluating options to continue trimming salary cap commitments, putting Simons on the trade block. This development could align with the Clippers’ plans if Harden’s opt-out creates sufficient salary space.

Brett Siegel, an NBA insider, points to the Clippers as a key team to monitor for a potential trade involving Simons. The Celtics acquired Simons less than two weeks ago in a deal that sent Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers, but financial considerations may prompt another move this offseason. As Jay King of The Athletic mentioned,

“Looking to continue shedding salary, the Celtics have explored the idea of flipping Simons’ $27.7 million expiring contract.”

—Jay King, NBA Analyst, The Athletic

Anfernee Simons’ Skillset and Potential Fit with the Clippers

Simons posted impressive numbers last season with averages of 19.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, while shooting efficiently at 42.6% from the field and 36.3% from three-point range. His ability to create his own shot, handle the ball effectively, and stretch defenses with perimeter shooting makes him an attractive offensive asset. While Simons’ defensive consistency has occasionally been questioned, the Clippers have strong defenders in Kris Dunn, Ivica Zubac, and Kawhi Leonard to help mitigate that concern.

Acquiring Simons would likely require a significant trade package centered around players such as Norman Powell or Bogdan Bogdanovic, primarily due to salary matching requirements. Though such moves would involve sacrifices, the potential offensive boost could help the Clippers recover from their recent offensive struggles, where they ranked as the fourth-worst scoring team in the Western Conference.

Implications for the Clippers’ Championship Aspirations and Roster Strategy

James Harden’s choice to turn down the player option creates a pivotal moment for the Los Angeles Clippers as they attempt to assemble a lineup capable of making a deep playoff run. Maintaining Harden while adding a dynamic scorer like Anfernee Simons could rejuvenate the team’s offense and address critical gaps left by Paul George’s departure.

This free agency period could redefine the Clippers’ trajectory, balancing the need to retain veteran leadership with the infusion of younger talent. How the front office manages salary cap space, player acquisitions, and contract negotiations over the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the next chapter for this franchise.