James Harden Was Reportedly Stopped By 76ers Security From Boarding Team Plane
MIAMI, FLORIDA - MAY 10: James Harden #1 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts against the Miami Heat during the first half in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Semifinals at FTX Arena on May 10, 2022 in Miami, Florida.
The impasse between James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers has now lasted into the regular season, and Harden is not with the team as they are in Milwaukee for their season opener against the Bucks.
Harden attempted to join the team for their trip, but the Sixers told him to stay behind. The 76ers were so adamant about Harden not being with the team that they reportedly had security stop him from boarding the team plane.
According to TNT's Chris Haynes, the team was surprised by Harden's appearance at practice on Wednesday after being away for the previous ten days.
Haynes says that the Sixers expressed to Harden that he stay behind, and that Harden saw that as a suggestion instead of an order. He went through practice and then attempted to board the plane, but was turned away by security.
76ers general manager Elton Brand and head coach Nick Nurse told Harden that it would be best to remain away from the team so they could evaluate his physical progress at the start of the season.
Harden has continued to report to the team facility as instructed by the team, and he's continued to work out in line with the Sixers' demands.
The NBA is looking into Harden's absence, as all missed games for healthy star players will be evaluated in accordance with the league's new rules on rest and load management this season.
