The Brooklyn Nets came into the season with some serious hopes of being favorites to win the 2022 NBA Championship, but with the latest reports on star guard James Harden, it appears that there could be some trouble in paradise on the horizon.
According to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer, Harden has some complaints about the Brooklyn Nets, including not enjoying living in Brooklyn, and shared frustrations about teammate Kyrie Irving’s status as a part-time player for the team.
These complaints reportedly make it very likely that Harden will test free agency in the coming offseason, leaving his future in Brooklyn with some uncertainty.
While these reports are unlikely to affect the Nets this season, it leaves the door open to a possible sign-and-trade in the offseason to another team should the Nets feel that Harden feels strongly about leaving.
Along with these rumors, Fischer brought up the possibility of a James Harden and Ben Simmons sign-and-trade as a possible resolution for both teams in the future.
Here are some reactions around the NBA world on these James Harden rumors.
He wants the red carpet treatment. He wants to feel wanted. Understandable.
— KwameKing (@Kingkwame215) January 25, 2022
It's crystal clear how Brooklyn needs to approach the trade deadline given all the smoke around James Harden & the potential that this could be the Big Three's "Last Dance."
Joe Tsai needs to open up his wallet, be willing to use the TPEs, and Sean Marks needs to be aggressive.
— Billy Reinhardt (@BillyReinhardt) January 25, 2022
I’m not mad at James Harden. He wasn’t expecting to play with a part time player.
— Laker Central (@LakerCentral365) January 25, 2022
I'm hardly surprised that James Harden is frustrated about being left by himself as the Will Smith-Fresh Prince meme for home games.
— Billy Reinhardt (@BillyReinhardt) January 25, 2022
With the loss of Kevin Durant to a sprained MCL that will keep him out 4-6 weeks, Harden has been left to carry the burden of Kyrie Irving’s part-time status alone for home games for the next month or so.
It will be interesting to monitor how things go in the coming weeks and months for the Brooklyn Nets. These reports could mean nothing if the Nets continue to win, especially if their success continues into the postseason with the ultimate goal of a championship pans out for the team.
