Key Takeaways:
– James Harden might choose the LA Lakers as his next career move.
– The Lakers have a 6-to-1 odds of landing the former MVP as per BetOnline.
– Only Phoenix Suns and Orlando Magic top the Lakers with odds of 4-to-1 and 5-to-1 respectively.
In the aftermath of a postseason that lacked any championship rings, James Harden is on the brink of becoming an unrestricted free agent. As this pivotal career step approaches, one burning question arises: could the LA Lakers be the next stage of his championship hunt? Online betting site, BetOnline, provides some intriguing projections.
The LA Lakers as a Potential Destination
According to BetOnline, LeBron James-led LA Lakers appear like a staunch third likely landing place for the seasoned player. They predict odds of 6-to-1 in favor of the Lakers. However, they’re not the outright favorites. Phoenix Suns and Orlando Magic command better odds at 4-to-1 and 5-to-1 respectively.
James Harden delivered an average of 16.6 points, 8.5 assists, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.1 steals for the LA Clippers this season over 72 starts. Despite these impressive stats, the playoffs presented a different story. Harden and the Clippers were wiped out in six games by the Dallas Mavericks. In games 5 and 6 respectively, Harden contributed only 23 points on a combined 7-of-28 shooting from the field and a dismal 1-of-13 behind the arc.
Clippers Determined to Retain Harden
It wouldn’t be surprising if both Harden and the Clippers parted ways this summer. Yet, early reports indicate he’s a top priority for the team. Sam Amick, of The Athletic, in his column on May 3rd, discussed the Clippers’ upcoming offseason. He did not mince words about the anticipated harmonious fallout from the contract negotiations with Harden.
Amick says that while both parties wish to continue the partnership, the team and league sources have indicated that it’s not an easy road ahead. There are tough financial conversations needed on both sides. How much Harden, at age 34, is seeking in his next deal remains undisclosed.
Duo Lakers Leverage Vs. Clippers Hardship
Interestingly, one can’t help but note the stark contrast between the playoff games played by stars of the Clippers and Lakers. While the Clippers’ Kawhi Leonard and Paul George clocked 142 games, Anthony Davis and LeBron James for the Lakers have featured in 147 games. Health-related issues have been a recurring detriment for the Clippers duo, having managed only 26 of 42 possible postseason games together.
James Harden, having played 72 games this year shows potential to bring immense value to the Lakers. With Harden on the court, the Clippers outperformed their opponents by 5.9 points per 100 possessions, according to Cleaning the Glass. If Harden were to join the Lakers, Davis and James would arguably have the most capable floor general yet.
Possible Future for Harden
Despite a softer playoff performance, Harden’s capabilities to control and dictate an offense remain undisputed. Amidst the current speculation, the Lakers could leverage this skill set for future victories if Harden decides to move.