James Harden Rumors: Rockets 'Real Suitors' for 76ers Star in 2023 NBA Free Agency

Could James Harden be donning a Houston Rockets uniform once again in the 2023-24 NBA season?

In an appearance on NBA Countdown, ESPN NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski spoke about how an opt-out option in Harden's contract could see the 2017-18 MVP head back to the Rockets nearly three years after being traded away.

"The Houston Rockets loom as a real suitor in free agency this summer," Wojnarowski said. "... There are a lot of things that are attractive to Houston for him. It is essentially home, family there, familiarity with that organization and that community. They got $60 million in cap space. They want to be improved next season."

Harden, who currently plays for the Philadelphia 76ers, signed a two-year, $68.6 million deal with the team before the 2022-23 season. The deal contains a player opt-out clause after this season, and Harden would have to utilize this to become an unrestricted free agent. If he were to opt-in, he would take home $35.6 million in 2023-24.

Despite the lofty monetary value, Wojnarowski noted that Harden's play in 2022-23 makes him a hot commodity if he were to enter free agency. The guard averaged 21.0 points and 10.7 rebounds across 58 games.

Wojnarowski also noted that Philadelphia may be interested in parting with Harden.

"For this Philly organization, they've got to look at Harden at 34 years old," Wojnarowski said. "... Where does he fit in in terms of years on the contract, money on the contract."

Wojnarowski noted that Harden could be using the Rockets as leverage to make the 76ers commit to an extension but noted that he could have genuine interest in returning to the team where he experienced his prime seasons.

The Rockets went 22-60 and finished 14th in the Western Conference in 2022-23. The franchise has not reached the postseason since trading Harden.

Harden and the 76ers are currently in the second round of the NBA playoffs.