James Harden Re-Signs with Los Angeles Clippers on Two-Year Deal

James Harden has reportedly agreed to re-sign with the Los Angeles Clippers on a two-year, $70 million deal, according to multiple reports. The deal includes a player option for the second year.

NBA free agency opened with a bang on Sunday as James Harden reportedly agreed to re-sign with the Los Angeles Clippers on a two-year, $70 million deal. The contract includes a player option for the second year, according to sources.

Harden's decision to remain in Los Angeles comes after a tumultuous season with the Philadelphia 76ers. The superstar guard forced his way out of Philadelphia in February and was traded to the Clippers.

James Harden Re-Signs with Los Angeles Clippers on Two-Year Deal

In Los Angeles, Harden played a key role in the team's success, averaging 16.6 points, 8.5 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game. The Clippers finished the regular season with a 51-31 record, finishing fourth in the Western Conference.

However, the Clippers' playoff run was cut short by the Dallas Mavericks in the first round. The team's inability to advance further into the playoffs raised questions about the future of the Clippers' "Big Three" consisting of Harden, Paul George, and Kawhi Leonard.

James Harden Re-Signs with Los Angeles Clippers on Two-Year Deal

Leonard, who missed the playoffs due to injury, averaged 23.7 points and 6.1 rebounds in 68 regular-season games. George played in 74 games, averaging 22.6 points per game.

With Harden re-signing, the Clippers have retained a key piece of their core. The 35-year-old guard will be entering his 15th NBA season and is still a valuable contributor on the court.

James Harden Re-Signs with Los Angeles Clippers on Two-Year Deal

Harden's re-signing also provides some clarity to the Clippers' future. The team's decision to retain Harden suggests that they believe in the potential of their "Big Three" and are willing to give them another chance to compete for a championship.

The Clippers now turn their attention to the rest of free agency. George is expected to opt out of his contract and could become a target for teams such as the Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors, and Orlando Magic.

The Clippers also have a number of other free agents to consider, including center Ivica Zubac and forward Nicolas Batum. The team will attempt to build a competitive roster around Harden, George, and Leonard in hopes of making a deeper playoff run next season.