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#3. Kyrie Irving vs. Brooklyn Nets
Kyrie Irving’s trade to the Dallas Mavericks wasn’t nearly as dramatic or as controversial as his past controversies with the Brooklyn Nets. Irving’s stint in Brooklyn will be known mostly for his off-court issues rather than his basketball exploits.
He sat out for nearly an entire season for refusing to take the Covid-19 vaccine. “Uncle Drew” also took time out without notice due to the political situation in Washington. There was also an anti-semitic post that caused him to be suspended for multiple NBA games.
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Despite everything, Irving thought he’d get a maximum long-term deal. The Brooklyn Nets refused so the point guard asked to be traded for the second time in this year’s trade deadline.
#2. James Harden vs. Houston Rockets
James Harden and fat suits became a meme when “The Beard” reported for the Houston Rockets’ 2020 training camp visibly out of shape. The former NBA MVP asked the team to trade him in November of that year.
When Houston refused to accommodate him, he became disgruntled and disappointed. He was often late in practices after reportedly partying most nights.
The Rockets eventually gave in when the Brooklyn Nets offered a ton of draft capital and players to acquire the wantaway star.
#1. James Harden vs. Philadelphia Sixers
James Harden recently called Philadelphia 76ers basketball operations head Daryl Morey “a liar” in front of hundreds of fans. No one has come close to what “The Beard” did to his former friend and someone he worked with closely for a decade.
Harden (again) wanted to be traded somewhere else. Morey publicly said that he was looking to honor that request if the Sixers can get fair compensation.
When the team reportedly shut down trade talks to bring the 10x NBA All-Star back for training camp, Harden went ballistic. He said that he would never play for a team that Morey is a part of.
James Harden just opted into the final year of his contract, making him obligated to play for the Philadelphia 76ers. How this will play out will probably be the most interesting standoff to monitor in the NBA’s offseason.
