James Harden Reportedly 'Trending Towards' Declining $36.35M Clippers Contract Option

Los Angeles Clippers star guard James Harden reportedly could join the lengthy list of talented players who will be available in free agency this summer.

According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, league sources said Harden "is trending towards declining his $36.35 million player option" this offseason.

While Harden could be hitting the open market imminently, that doesn't necessarily mean he's going anywhere. Scotto explained, "Both Harden and the Clippers are interested in continuing their partnership, sources say, with a growing belief that his next contract could keep him in Los Angeles through the 2026-27 season alongside Kawhi Leonard."

Harden is coming off his 11th career All-Star selection and a third-team All-NBA selection after averaging 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, 8.7 assists and 1.5 steals across 79 games. Scotto noted that the California native "has enjoyed his homecoming with the Clippers and raised the franchise’s floor" by elevating players like Norman Powell and Ivica Zubac, who put together the best season of their respective careers in 2024-25.

Despite Harden's brilliance, the Clippers once again failed to achieve the postseason success that has eluded the franchise throughout its existence. Los Angeles placed fifth in the Western Conference with a 50-32 record and lost to the Denver Nuggets in seven games in the first round of the playoffs.

Retaining Harden would give the Clippers a good chance of returning to the playoffs next season, but declining his option to test the open market will open the possibility of him chasing an NBA championship elsewhere.