In a recent interview, Los Angeles Clippers star James Harden revealed his ultimate starting five, highlighting players from his 16-year NBA career, including his Philadelphia 76ers teammate Joel Embiid. Harden selected a dynamic squad featuring Kyrie Irving, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Durant, himself, and Embiid, praising the group for their ability to run the floor, handle the ball, and shoot effectively.
Despite leaving out notable collaborators such as Serge Ibaka, Chris Paul, and former Sixer Dwight Howard, Harden’s chosen lineup underscored the importance of versatility and speed, reflecting his appreciation for the qualities Embiid brought to Philadelphia’s roster.
Recalling Harden and Embiid’s Collaboration in Philadelphia
James Harden joined the Philadelphia 76ers in February 2022, arriving as the centerpiece of a trade with the Brooklyn Nets that marked the end of the Ben Simmons controversy. Although initially listed on the injury report, Harden made an immediate impact with a 27-point, 12-assist debut against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Harden’s consistent performances helped the 76ers secure the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. They then triumphed over the Toronto Raptors in six games, setting up a challenging playoff series against the Miami Heat. Unfortunately, Embiid was sidelined for the first two games of that series due to an injury sustained in the opener against Toronto.
During Embiid’s absence, Harden stepped up but was unable to carry Philadelphia past Miami, averaging 18.2 points and seven assists per game. The following season mirrored this playoff outcome, but the regular season saw Harden lead the league with a 10.7 assists per game average, playing a crucial role in Embiid’s MVP achievement—the first for a 76er since Allen Iverson.
The End of Harden’s Philadelphia Journey and Its Aftermath
Tensions between Harden and the 76ers’ front office, particularly President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey, surfaced publicly during an offseason press event in China. These issues led to Harden missing Philadelphia’s first three games of the new season before he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in late October.
This trade concluded Harden’s brief but memorable chapter with the Sixers, a period marked by strong on-court synergy with Embiid and hopeful playoff aspirations. Harden’s recognition of Embiid in his ultimate lineup highlights the lasting bond formed during their shared time in Philadelphia.