James Harden will be a restricted free agent next summer, and he already seems prepared to explore the open market, yet the Thunder have no reason to be worried.
Though Oklahoma City is approaching a potential crossroads, with both Harden and Serge Ibaka set to earn big money deals next summer, Harden’s most recent sentiments are anything but cause for disconcertion.
According to Dan Bickley of The Republic, Harden is open to playing for the Phoenix Suns after this year.
Former Arizona State star James Harden would consider signing with the Suns if his contract expires after next season.
“Yeah,” he said. “Of course. I love it there. My mom lives there still. So that’s definitely my second home as far as my comfort level and going to school there. But obviously, I’m with the Thunder right now and what we have is special.”
While such comments are perhaps a sign of hope for Phoenix and its fans, they should mean little to Thunder. Harden was merely stating his interest in such a franchise should he and Oklahoma City fail to workout a contract extension. And isn’t this the predicament the Thunder have been faced with all along?
Harden’s recent sentiments are no reason to panic, just like his impending free-agency is no reason for Oklahoma City to go Dwight Howard-hunting.
The Thunder are approaching a delicate situation, no one is denying that. Few teams that aren’t the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks could afford to carry the pay-load of four superstars in their prime. But this is the hand the Thunder have been dealt. And you know what? They’re in the driver’s seat.
Despite Harden acknowledging he will test the market should an agreement on an extension not be reached by season’s end, Oklahoma City holds all the leverage. He’ll only be a restricted free agent, meaning they have the right to match any offer. And that’s in addition to the fact that they have the ability to offer him more years and money than other team.
What does that essentially mean?
That the Thunder can wait until the last possible second to make a gripping decision if they wish to. Is it optimal to do so? No, but having the ability to is crucial.
If the Thunder want Harden to remain in Oklahoma City, he will, regardless of what he says—no matter how innocent—and regardless of what outside teams will hope transpire.
Yes, it’s an insanely difficult decision the Thunder will eventually be forced to make, but they have all the possible tools, all the possible advantages needed to make it.
Dan Favale is a firm believer in the three-pointer as well as the notion that defense doesn’t always win championships. His musings can be found at Bleacherreport.com in addition to TheHoopDoctors.com. Follow @danfavale on Twitter for his latest posts and all things NBA.
