Rumors of Harden’s need to depart Brooklyn were percolating just lately, whilst Simmons hasn’t performed all season as a way to pressure a transfer clear of the 76ers.
They each were given their needs on Thursday.
Along Harden, the 76ers will obtain Paul Millsap, whilst the 76ers despatched Simmons, Seth Curry and Andre Drummond to Brooklyn, in addition to two first spherical draft selections.
The transfer comes simply 13 months after the Nets bought 2018 NBA MVP Harden to play along Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.
Alternatively, accidents and different components — together with Irving’s Covid-19 vaccination standing, that means he may just best function intermittently — have noticed the Nets’ “Giant 3” best take to the ground 16 occasions in combination.
And whilst they regarded spectacular throughout the ones 16 outings with Harden a loose agent this summer time; the Nets determined to transport him on slightly than lose him for not anything or pay him an enormous contract.
Durant, who used to be showing on TNT’s protection of the NBA All-Superstar Recreation draft as one of the vital captains, stated he used to be “satisfied we were given guys who wish to be a part of this” when requested in regards to the business.
He additionally made it lovely transparent he did not need Harden on his All-Superstar workforce. With the choice of settling on him, Durant selected different avid gamers, even on his ultimate pick out with Harden nonetheless to be had.
Harden, a 10-time All-Superstar, averages 25 issues, 5.6 rebounds and six.7 assists over his occupation.
The 76ers managing spouse Josh Harris gushed over the 2 new arrivals in Philadelphia.
“We are delighted to pair him with Joel Embiid and this dynamic roster in our pursuit of an NBA identify. I’m proud to welcome James and Paul Millsap — a confirmed veteran and previous All Superstar — to the 76ers, and cannot watch for what the long run holds for the town and our enthusiasts.”
For Simmons, it ends a holdout that has lasted months after he requested to be traded in a while after the 76ers misplaced to the Atlanta Hawks in the second one spherical of the Japanese Convention playoffs ultimate season.
The No. 1 total pick out within the NBA draft hasn’t taken to the court docket all season however will now get the risk to restore his occupation in New York with some big-name avid gamers.
Over his 4 seasons within the league, Simmons has averaged 15.9 issues, 8.1 rebounds, and seven.7 assists in line with sport whilst taking pictures 56% and compiling 32 triple-doubles, rating thirteenth in NBA historical past.
Nets head trainer Steve Nash stated he’s “excited to include those new guys” into his workforce.
“I believe his reward is that he is a surprisingly athletic defender who’s an inventive passer, implausible in transition and too can playmake out of pick out and roll as a curler. I believe he may also be dynamic for us in a large number of tactics.
“I believe he suits our staff in reality neatly and I believe it is in reality thrilling to tackle this kind of gifted participant who is in a position to go into the second one level of his occupation and confidently we will lend a hand him take a bounce.”
