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James Harden declines player option, expected to sign $81.5 million contract

James Harden rests during halftime (2025)
James Harden rests during halftime (2025) Ronald Martinez/Getty Images/AFP
Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden declined his player option on Sunday and is expected to sign a two-year deal worth $81.5 million with the team.

Harden averaged 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game for the Clippers this past season.

The 17-year-veteran led the Clippers in scoring this past year en route to a 50-32 record before losing to the Denver Nuggets in seven games during the first round of the NBA Playoffs. 

Harden continues to be one of the most decorated basketball players of his time. The 11-time All-Star has also made the All-NBA eight times while also being the 2017-2018 league MVP. 

The 35-year-old was named to the 2009-2010 All-Rookie team after averaging just under 10 points per game before eventually winning Sixth Man of the Year two seasons later. 

Harden would also go on to be a two-time NBA Assist leader en route to his nod to be elected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.