James Harden Makes Future Plans With Brooklyn Nets Clear

Brooklyn Nets, James Harden, NBA
NBA Analysis Network

The Brooklyn Nets have a lot on their plate to deal with when it comes to NBA superstar Kyrie Irving. His future with the organization is cloudy, as he remains away from the team until he receives his vaccine for COVID-19.

The Nets originally planned to sign all three of Irving, Kevin Durant, and James Harden to extensions this offseason to lock in their Big 3 long-term.

Right now, Kevin Durant is the only one who has agreed to an extension.

Irving’s extension was taken off the table by the Nets as he remains ineligible to play in games at Barclays Center and Madison Square Garden. It is anyone’s guess where his future will lie, as he has a player option for the 2022-23 season.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: This Nets-Spurs Trade Is Focused On Kyrie Irving

Irving could very well have played his last game with the Brooklyn Nets. They have made their stance clear that unless you are a full-time player, you will not be a part of the team. Harden, on the other hand, it was surprising to see no-deal get done.

But, he has made it clear that Brooklyn is where he wants to be. He cleared that up recently when talking to the media, providing some insight into why an extension wasn’t signed.

“I don’t plan on leaving this organization and the situation that we have. So my focus, honestly, is just focus on the season and then winning the championship. The contract and all that stuff will bear itself out, but my focus is going to be locked on this season.”

It seems like James Harden is taking an unnecessary risk by not signing his extension. If he happens to suffer an injury this season, he could receive an offer less than what he could have signed for before the season.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: This Nets-Spurs Trade Is Focused On Kyrie Irving

It is leaving his options open, as he could become a free agent this offseason as well with a player option for the 2022-23 season. But, he loves Brooklyn and wants to remain focused on winning a championship.

“Last year was a whirlwind for me individually as far as my health and playing,” Harden said. “So this year I feel like I need to come back and show I am one of those [elite] guys. So I’ve got a lot to prove myself, and that’s all I’m worried about and focused upon.

“I love it here, myself and [Brooklyn owners] Joe [Tsai] and Clara [Wu Tsai] and [GM] Sean [Marks] and the front office and [alternate governor Oliver Weisberg] and [head coach] Steve [Nash]. From top to bottom the communication has been unbelievable, it’s been amazing. I feel at home. It’s nothing to worry about. For me individually I just want to focus on this year and that’s it.”

It certainly sounds like the Brooklyn Nets have nothing to worry about when it comes to James Harden’s future with the team. He seems committed to the franchise and will work out a deal to remain with the organization in the offseason.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: This Nets-Spurs Trade Is Focused On Kyrie Irving

Nothing is guaranteed until the pen is put to paper and a new deal is agreed upon. Until then, even with his strong stance, his future will be questioned.

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