James Harden Reportedly Eyed as NBA Trade Candidate, Latest Landing Spot Rumors

Amid the ongoing struggles by the Los Angeles Clippers, star guard James Harden is reportedly considered a potential trade candidate.

NBA insider Marc Stein reported, "One well-placed Western Conference observer shared this week that James Harden's status going forward is being monitored closely by various teams, given his career goals at age 36 and the Clippers' dim prospects for digging out of their current hole."

Stein went on to name the Minnesota Timberwolves as a team that is "known to be scouring the league at present for a true playmaker."

The Clippers rank 14th in the Western Conference with a 6-20 record, losing each of their last four games. As the Feb. 5 trade deadline approaches, teams appear to be exploring the possibility of acquiring Los Angeles' top assets, as NBA insider Zach Lowe also recently reported that "vultures are circling" for center Ivica Zubac.

Despite the team's struggles, Harden has performed up to his usual standards, leading the Clippers with 26.0 points and 8.1 assists while also adding 5.2 rebounds and 1.3 steals. Earlier this month, he moved into the top 10 on the NBA's all-time scoring list. He was ruled out for Thursday night's game against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to a left calf contusion.

While trading Harden would kick off a rebuild for Los Angeles, it sounds like the franchise isn't ready to give up on the season just yet. ESPN's Ramona Shelburne reported earlier this week during an episode of NBA Today that the Clippers aren't thinking about "blowing it up" and instead "want to get back to being as competitive as they can be."

At this stage in his career, Harden should be focused on trying to earn his first NBA championship, so there's a chance that he tries to force his way off the team. If he lands with a contender like the Timberwolves, he could be a difference-maker in the playoff race this season.