On February 12, Beijing time, according to ESPN reporter Tim Bontemps, Harden has officially become a member of the 76ers, but his debut will have to wait. He won't play in the 76ers' game against the Thunder today and against the Cavaliers tomorrow, and is expected to arrive in Philadelphia this weekend local time to be examined by the team's medical team. Tim Bontemps said Harden will make his debut as soon as next Wednesday's game.
Harden has been sidelined for the past week due to hamstring strain. Subsequently, at the trade deadline, a big trade between him and Simmons occurred, and Harden officially left the Nets to become a Philadelphia player. He was traded to Philadelphia along with veteran Millsap, who sent Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, Drummond and two first-round picks.
Tim Bontemps interviewed Maxi, who is about to partner Harden in the backcourt. Speaking about new teammate Harden, Maxi said it was surreal to be able to partner with him. "It's really crazy because when I was a kid, he (Harden) was one of the guys I always used when I played 2K." Maxi also revealed that one of his best friends in high school was Harden's number one fan.
Maxi talked about the combination of Embiid and Harden. "They're two MVP-level players and I think chemistry can help us, the fraternity here will be great, I can't wait!" He said the team would help Harden and Millsap adapt to the new system as quickly as possible. Previous reports said Harden would wear the No. 1 jersey instead, and Philadelphia's No. 13 had retired and belonged to Chamberlain.
So far this season, Harper has averaged 22.5 points, 10.2 assists and 8 rebounds, Embiid averaging 29.4 points, 10.9 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game, and Maxi averaging 16.9 points, 3.6 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game.