The Los Angeles Clippers just saved their major piece. James Harden is staying in the lineup on a new two-year contract. The new deal gives Harden a raise from the $35 million he made last season, but it also allows the team to be financially flexible.
The eleven-time all-star averaged 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds over 79 games last season. The numbers indicate it was his best scoring average since 2011. He helped the Clippers to a 50-32 record and a playoff berth. In the postseason, he put up 18.7 points and 9.1 assists in their first-round series loss to the Denver Nuggets.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Harden declined his $36.35 million player option for the 2025-26 season and signed a $81.5 million deal. The big man turned down his player option in the second year, which is partially guaranteed. His decision was not to chase the biggest payday but to give the front office more room to strengthen the roster.
BREAKING: 11-time NBA All-Star James Harden is declining his player option and intends to sign a new two-year, $81.5 million contract to return to the Los Angeles Clippers, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/qQMwkkMjMs
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2025
Though many thought Harden would look for a bigger deal in free agency, he focused on winning the title with the Clippers’ depth. As Kawhi Leonard is already on the roster, Harden’s team-friendly contract will boost the Clippers’ core to build a stronger lineup this offseason.
James Harden Made A Light-hearted Reply To His Critics
Harden made his runway debut for Willy Chavarria’s Spring/Summer 2026 show. He wore a jersey-style shirt, baggy shorts, Adidas sneakers, and dark sunglasses. He just made a bold appearance at the Paris fashion week.
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Fans on social media had mixed opinions regarding his ramp walk. Many joked about Harden’s stiff walk and compared him to a robot. At the same time, some questioned whether he would move on from his NBA career.
Harden did not step back and replied on Instagram, saying, ” Y’all been frying my walk for 24 hours straight though chill.” The caption indicates he was also happy to laugh along with his critics.
Instead of getting triggered, Harden replied with humor and style. He turned down the critics momentarily by running and showing his confidence on and off the runway.
Also Read: More Disturbing Details Emerge After James Harden Is Named As A Defendant In Bombshell Rape Lawsuit
