NBA free agency is here and fans across the league are expecting some big trades in the next few days. One of the biggest names who has dominated the past few trade seasons has been former MVP James Harden. He might potentially leave the Philadelphia 76ers with a number of teams looking to land his signature. With contract and internal issues plaguing the 76ers, it seems the Joel Embiid-led side are already eyeing a replacement.

It is none other than Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard. There have been multiple rumors which suggest that Lillard will leave the franchise soon, and an eminent NBA insider recently offered a whole new insight into the situation.

Damian Lillard might be the answer to James Harden for the 76ers

2018 MVP James Harden has been moving around the league over the past few seasons. After a massive disagreement with the Houston Rockets, he joined the Brooklyn Nets and formed a trio with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.

A couple of failed seasons later, he joined the Philadelphia 76ers in 2022 and it seems like he is already looking for a way out. With the 76ers facing contract issues with The Beard, they might be looking at Damian Lillard.

Eminent NBA Insider Brian Windhorst recently offered an interesting insight into the Lillard situation. According to him, the 76ers favor the 7-time NBA All-Star, but it all depends on whether he will ask for a trade.

“I think they would love to target Damian Lillard. The question is will Dame Lillard ask for a trade. And if he does ask for a trade, would he try to get himself traded to Philadelphia or would he have another option?” said Windhorst.

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Despite interest from teams like the 76ers, the Miami Heat is still leading the race for the Trail Blazers star. There is mutual interest between the player and the team as revealed a few days ago.

What next for Harden?

The 10-time NBA All-Star opted for his $35.6 million player option a few hours ago. It was quickly revealed that the 76ers will be looking at trade options following this huge update.

Harden has been linked with teams like the Los Angeles Clippers and the New York Knicks. His trade will be crucial if the Sixers want to bring in Damian Lillard. Assets received from the Harden trade will be crucial to presenting a blockbuster trade deal to the Portland Trail Blazers.

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What are your thoughts on the James Harden situation? Let us know in the comments!