James Harden Potentially Set To be Available At The 2026 Trade Deadline

The Los Angeles Clippers came into the 2025–26 season with hopes of being an NBA Playoffs threat, but as of right now, they're arguably the biggest disappointment in the league. With a 7–21 record, their season may already be over through 28 games, and if that is the case, they may be looking to make moves ahead of the 2026 trade deadline.

One player that could net them a fantastic return is star guard James Harden, and according to Marc Stein, they could make him available if their struggles continue.

“One veteran executive read my recent item about James Harden's potential availability between now and the Feb. 5 deadline and said his front office, to name at least one, indeed projects the NBA's last American-born MVP (from the 2017–18 season) to wind up in trade play at some point this winter.”

While the Clippers’ veteran core has struggled for the most part, Harden has excelled in his role, averaging 26 points, five rebounds, and eight assists per game this year. With Chris Paul moved on, Bradley Beal injured, and Kawhi Leonard never on the court, it's unclear if the team is going to actively shop Harden, but right now, it may be the clear best move.

Ultimately, if the Clippers do move on from Harden, it would make this Clippers team one of the most disappointing in recent NBA history, and given the way that they've played, it appears as though that's the direction things are headed.