James Harden

James Harden is picking up his $35.6 million option and sides are beginning to work together in exploring trade scenarios.

Fantasy Impact

It appears Harden has played his last game with the 76ers. The Rockets were the team most connected to him had he not picked up his option and tested free agency. The Clippers and Knicks were two other teams once connected to Harden. Tyrese Maxey and De’Anthony Melton both figure to see the biggest boost in opportunity for fantasy managers.

James Harden is torn between staying with the Sixers or returning home to Houston, per report. His chances of winning a ring are much higher if he stays put but Houston has cap space for Harden to sign a massive deal, something Philly may not be able to do.

Fantasy Impact

Wherever Harden signs has big implications for either team. Philadelphia will look to bring in another star alongside Joel Embiid and Houston could be in playoff contention, albeit likely a lower seed. Houston is full of young talent and their fantasy values, not to mention their real life usage, would all take a hit if Harden comes to town. If Harden stays then things stay more or less status quo for their respective teams until free agency and the draft.

James Harden will not face any further disciplinary action by the NBA for his flagrant two foul against Royce O'Neale that led to his ejection on Thursday.

Fantasy Impact

It's not surprising that Harden won't face any further action, as his foul was perceived by many as lesser than his teammate Joel Embiid's foul against Nets center Nic Claxton. Regardless, Sixers fans can breathe a sigh of relief. Harden should be good to go for Game 4 as the Sixers will look to close out the series against Brooklyn.

James Harden (achilles) has been ruled out for Friday night's game against the Atlanta Hawks.

Fantasy Impact

Harden will miss Philadelphia's game against the Hawks. He's listed with an achilles injury, but he's actually sitting out because this is a meaningless game for the team. Fantasy managers can expect Shake Milton to get a lot more work with Harden and Tyrese Maxey (neck) both being ruled out on Friday night.

James Harden posted a double-double for the 76ers Friday night, dishing out 11 assists and scoring 23 points (9-14 FG, 3-6 3PT, 2-2 FT) while also recording two steals, grabbing three rebounds, and blocking one shot in a 117-110 win over the Raptors.

Fantasy Impact

Harden has been impactful on both ends of the floor of late for the 76ers, dishing out at least 11 assists, grabbing at least four rebounds, and scoring at least 11 points in four of his last five games for the club. The veteran guard has continued to produce strong output for fantasy owners in multiple category formats, averaging 21.3 points, 10.9 assists, and 6.2 rebounds per game to go along with a 24.8% usage rate so far this season.