James Harden Participates in 76ers Pregame Activities, Expected to Return to Practice
October 29, 2023
In an unexpected turn of events, James Harden participated in the Philadelphia 76ers’ pregame walkthrough and video session ahead of their home opener against the Portland Trail Blazers, according to 76ers head coach Nick Nurse.
The news comes as a surprise considering the ongoing saga surrounding Harden’s potential participation with the team this season. The star player had requested a trade back in June and even publicly criticized 76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey during a promotional appearance in China.
However, it seems that Harden and the team are making progress towards resolving their differences. Coach Nurse confirmed that Harden had been present for the film session and walk-through, stating that he had been having good conditioning days and is still in the ramp-up process. The team expects Harden to rejoin practice on Tuesday.
When asked about any setbacks in Harden’s conditioning and ramp-up work, Nurse assured that everything had gone according to plan. He expressed optimism about Harden’s progress and emphasized the need to get him back into live action.
Despite Harden’s absence, rookie Tyrese Maxey has stepped up as Philadelphia’s starting point guard and delivered impressive performances. Maxey scored 31 points and dished out 8 assists with no turnovers in the season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks. He followed it up with 34 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists, and only 1 turnover in a victory against the Toronto Raptors.
With Sunday’s game marking the second half of a back-to-back, the team will have an off-day on Monday before resuming practices on Tuesday and Wednesday. If Harden successfully completes these practice sessions, he could potentially make his season debut on Thursday night against the Raptors in Philadelphia.
While many uncertainties still surround Harden’s future with the 76ers, his recent engagement with team activities provides hope for reconciliation and a return to the court. Fans and teammates eagerly await his official return and the impact he will have on the team’s success.