The Philadelphia 76ers are coming off seven straight victories going into the Christmas Day encounter against the New York Knicks. Joel Embiid has been able to lead the 76ers to a 19-12 record in the Eastern Conference, alongside James Harden. Amid the positive atmosphere in the 76ers camp, a report about Harden’s potentially career-altering reunion decision has left the NBA world baffled.

James Harden joined Joel Embiid in Philly during the 2022 playoffs, after leaving the Brooklyn Nets. The 10-time All-Star also signed a two-year, $68.6 million deal with the 76ers in July. However, recent reports about Harden’s future could come as shocking news for Embiid, who recently praised the 2018 MVP.

News about the possible future of James Harden puzzles NBA fans

According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, “All-Star guard James Harden is seriously considering a return to the Houston Rockets in free agency this July — if he decides against a new deal with the Philadelphia 76ers.” Wojnarowski has reported that Harden and his inner circle have been discussing a return to the Houston Rockets in recent months. However, the consideration comes as a surprise as James Harden had left the Texas franchise after requesting a trade less than two years ago.

Moreover, Harden finds himself in a great position in Philadelphia alongside superstar Joel Embiid. The duo has shown some great chemistry for the 76ers resulting in their recent success. Therefore, considering the scope of a championship win alongside Embiid, fans were left a little puzzled by the recent report about Harden.

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One fan joked about the whole situation, poking fun at Harden’s propensity to frequent gentlemen’s clubs, “Are the strip clubs in Philly that bad?”

Another confused fan commented, “Philly gentlemen’s club not it?

Here are some other reactions from fans.

https://twitter.com/__adel11/status/1607044532562001924

https://twitter.com/MJHeights/status/1607047262416572417

Fans appeared to be taken aback by the reports about Harden potentially leaving the 76ers. Many fans wondered why he would want to leave Embiid when things appear to be going pretty well for him and the team. However, Adrian Wojnarowski’s reports come in the wake of Joel Embiid praising Harden.

Joel Embiid acknowledged Harden’s talent

Joel Embiid and James Harden appeared to be in complete control during their 119-114 victory against the Los Angeles Clippers. Embiid scored 44 points, while Harden secured a career-high 21 assists during the game.

While talking to SB Nations’ Paul Hudrick, Embiid stated, “He makes my life easier and I sure hope I do the same for him. ? Every single day I just think we?re getting better.?

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The five-time All-Star felt that his partnership with Harden was good for the 76ers. Moreover, Harden has also enjoyed some impressive success alongside Embiid in a short time.

Do you think Harden could leave the 76ers? Let us know in the comments below.