Harden refuses to execute the option of 36 million players! Will become a free agent and is expected to re-sign with the Clippers

On June 29, the NBA entered the offseason. According to multiple US media reports, including Shot Coverage, Harden refused to execute the $36 million player option and he will become a free agent. In an interview, Clippers President Frank bluntly stated that staying Harden is the top priority this summer.

Several US media including Shot Coverage said: "James Harden plans to refuse to execute the $36 million player option and become a full free agent." As early as July last year, Harden signed a two-year, 70 million contract with the Clippers, and a 36.3 million player option the next year. In fact, it is not surprising that Harden jumped out of the contract, and he is likely to sign a renewal contract with the Clippers next.

Speaking of Harden's ideal prospects, Frank said: "The ideal situation is that Harden stays for a long time and the Clippers win the championship. This is the best script we expect. He is our top priority, and we really hope he can stay and stay here for a long time." Frank said that if Harden jumps out of the player option, they hope to reach an agreement that is reasonable for both sides.

In the 2024-25 season, Harden played a total of 79 games in the regular season, averaging 35.3 minutes per game, scoring 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, 8.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.7 blocks. His shooting percentage was 41%, his three-point shooting percentage was 35.3%, and his free throw shooting percentage was 87.4%. Under Harden's leadership, the Clippers ranked fifth in the Western Conference and were selected as the third team of the Best Team. In this year's playoffs, Harden played 7 games in total, averaging 39.4 minutes per game, scoring 18.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, 9.1 assists, 1.3 steals and 1 block, shooting percentage of 43.6% and three-point shooting percentage of 36.4%.

What new contract do you think Harden will sign? Welcome to give your predictions in the comment section.