Kofi Inkoom
The Los Angeles Clippers displayed a keen interest in acquiring James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers, but an NBA Insider has now raised speculation that they might shift their focus towards pursuing Jrue Holiday instead.
Also, as per reports from sources deeply entrenched in the NBA network, it has been revealed that the Los Angeles Clippers are actively in pursuit of Jrue Holiday.
BREAKING: A source tells Legion Hoops that the Los Angeles Clippers are “heavily pursuing” Jrue Holiday from the Blazers.
This comes after the 76ers have been unwilling to deal James Harden this offseason. pic.twitter.com/lXetUkdwr6
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) September 28, 2023
Philadelphia’s basketball fans seemed rather delighted to learn that the Milwaukee Bucks had moved on from Jrue Holiday.
Following the conclusion of the Damian Lillard saga with his transfer to the Eastern Conference and Holiday’s arrival as part of the deal, reports emerged of the Portland Trail Blazers intending to redirect Holiday.
Swiftly, the Sixers were linked to the experienced guard, a player whose career had its beginnings in Philadelphia.
However, if the Sixers decide to reach out to the Blazers to discuss this possibility, they will find themselves in a competitive market for the services of the two-time All-Star playmaker.
In an ideal scenario, the Sixers would manage to replace the discontented James Harden with Jrue Holiday.
This would necessitate the involvement of a third team, as the Blazers’ plans don’t align with Harden’s timeline, which is why they’re looking to move Holiday in the first place.
While the Los Angeles Clippers have shown interest in Harden throughout the offseason, and they are the preferred destination for the Sixers’ ten-time All-Star, there might be an alternative path for the Clippers to consider.
According to insights from ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Clippers have also expressed interest in acquiring Jrue Holiday. While it’s not clear whether the Clippers have a stronger inclination toward one trade prospect over the other, Holiday’s track record and contractual situation could make him a more attractive option than Harden for the Clippers.
“Any team who’s trying to win and is trying to really keep up with this arms race now in the East with Milwaukee attracting Damian Lillard in this deal, they want in on Jrue Holiday.”
—@wojespn pic.twitter.com/cbfQT0yimI
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) September 28, 2023
In terms of contracts, Holiday is slated to earn $34 million for the upcoming season, while Harden is due $35.6 million.
Looking ahead, Holiday holds a $37 million player option for the following season, whereas Harden will become a free agent and cannot sign an extension beforehand.
Given the uncertainty surrounding Harden’s future, the Clippers might also be hesitant to pursue him, especially considering that his previous two moves following his lengthy stint in Houston ended on sour notes.
Less than two years into his tenure with the Brooklyn Nets, Harden sought a way out. As he heads into his third season with the Sixers, Harden is once again embroiled in a standoff as training camp approaches.
The Clippers previously hesitated to meet the Sixers’ demands for Harden, leading to both teams agreeing to halt trade discussions.
While securing Holiday in exchange for Harden would undoubtedly satisfy the Sixers as they approach the 2023-2024 season, it appears that the Clippers are now leaning towards making Holiday their own acquisition.
Should the Clippers pursue Holiday ?