LA Clippers' James Harden, after a stellar 2024-25 All-NBA season, may decline his option to sign a longer deal, securing his future with Kawhi Leonard. What's next?
StatPro NBA Beat Reporter
Big news coming out of Clipper Nation today, folks! James Harden, fresh off an All-Star and All-NBA Third Team campaign, is reportedly leaning towards declining his hefty $36.35 million player option for the 2025-26 season. But don't panic – this isn't a sign he's looking to leave. Quite the opposite, as both Harden and the Clippers are keen on hammering out a new, longer-term deal to keep 'The Beard' in Los Angeles alongside Kawhi Leonard for the foreseeable future.
James Harden's 22.8 points and 8.7 assists per game weren't just numbers; they were the bedrock of the Clippers' fifth-seed finish after significant summer departures.
James Harden's decision to potentially opt-out is a strong indicator of mutual commitment. After stepping up massively in the 2024-25 season, averaging 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 8.7 assists over 79 games, he proved indispensable. His leadership was crucial in navigating the post-Paul George and Russell Westbrook era, guiding the team to a solid fifth seed in the West. Securing him for the next two seasons, as reports suggest, would provide much-needed stability and star power alongside Kawhi Leonard. This isn't just about retaining a player; it's about cementing the team's offensive engine for another championship push.
While Harden's future looks increasingly secure, Norman Powell's situation presents a fascinating subplot. Powell was on an absolute tear in 2024-25, putting up 21.8 points per game on stellar 48.4% field goal and 41.8% three-point shooting. He was a legitimate Most Improved Player candidate before unfortunate knee and hamstring injuries sidelined him. Upon his return, his role saw some adjustments, especially with the mid-season arrival of Bogdan Bogdanovic, who impressed by shooting 47.4% from the field and 42.7% from deep in his 30 games. Now 32, Powell is up for a contract extension, but he's also viewed as the Clippers' most significant trade chip. The front office faces a tough call: extend a proven scorer or leverage his value for other key pieces?
Beyond individual player contracts, the Clippers' broader offseason strategy is coming into focus. League insiders suggest the team is actively targeting a reliable backup point guard and a formidable rim-protecting big man, likely utilizing the non-taxpayer mid-level exception. Powell's future is central to these plans. Whether he's extended or becomes the centerpiece of a trade package could dictate the Clippers' ability to make a splash. There's even growing speculation that Powell could be dangled in pursuit of established stars like Jrue Holiday, Kevin Durant, or Giannis Antetokounmpo, should they become available. It's clear the front office isn't content with standing pat and is exploring all avenues to upgrade the roster.
The summer of 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal one for the Clippers. With Harden likely locked in and key decisions looming on Powell and targeted acquisitions, the front office has a clear path to reinforce the squad around Kawhi Leonard. Fasten your seatbelts, Clipper Nation, the offseason fireworks are just beginning!
