NBA Insiders Reveal Trade Value for James Harden, Kawhi Leonard amid Clippers Rumors

Recent discussions among NBA insiders have shed light on the trade value of stars James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. The Los Angeles Clippers face challenges in potentially trading these prominent players amid disappointing early-season performances.

Trade Value Assessment for Kawhi Leonard and James Harden

ESPN analyst Tim Bontemps recently shared insights on the trade market for Kawhi Leonard. During the Hoop Collective podcast, he expressed doubt regarding Leonard’s marketability, stating, “There is not a trade market for Kawhi Leonard around the league.”

Brian Windhorst, another ESPN colleague, offered a contrasting view on Harden. While he acknowledged some interest in Harden, Bontemps emphasized that any trade return would not significantly benefit the Clippers.

Financial Implications

• Kawhi Leonard’s contract: $50 million for the current season, with an additional $50.3 million due in 2026-27.
• James Harden’s contract: $39.2 million this year, plus a player option worth $42.3 million for the next season.

The luxury tax restrictions complicate trading high-paying contracts, even for star players. Both athletes, now in their mid-30s, have additional factors affecting their trade value.

Performance and Potential

Leonard has struggled with injuries, missing 10 games in November due to ankle and foot issues. Despite this, he is averaging 27.5 points with a shooting percentage of 49.5%, including 37.5% from three-point range. On the other hand, Harden averages 26.3 points and eight assists per game, but he is no longer the player he once was during his Houston Rockets days.

While both athletes would add value to playoff contenders, their trade value may not reflect that desirability. The Clippers need substantial draft capital to rejuvenate their roster, which may not be feasible with Leonard and Harden.

Current Team Situation

The Clippers are in a precarious position following a disappointing 10-21 start to the season. However, they have recently shown signs of improvement, riding a four-game winning streak. Their latest victory, a 112-99 win against the Detroit Pistons, featured Leonard’s impressive 55-point performance.

In the playoff race, the Clippers are just 2.5 games behind the final play-in spot and have a manageable 9.5-game deficit to the sixth-place Minnesota Timberwolves. Although dethroning the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder seems challenging, securing a playoff spot remains a realistic objective for Los Angeles.