On February 16, Beijing time, 76 Philadelphia held a press conference for new signings Harden and Millsap. Harden said in a press conference that Philadelphia was his first choice when he left the Rockets, and revealed that he decided to implement next season's player options in the offseason. He also talked about his relationship with Owen and the impact of Owen's non-vaccination.
Previously, it was reported that the Rockets boss originally let Harden choose where to go, harden picked the Nets instead of the 76ers, but at the press conference, Harden said that this was not the case. "When I was getting ready to leave the Rockets, Philadelphia was my first choice, but that didn't happen at the time," Harden said, "Joel [Embiid] was the best big man in the league, and of course the coaching staff." It's been fantastic from top to bottom and I'm happy and lucky to be here. I've known for a long time that this is the perfect fit. ”
It was previously reported that Harden had intended to execute the $47.4 million player option next season, but the relevant documents were not submitted on time and were not officially executed. At the press conference, Harden promised that he would execute on next season's contract options. He also praised Philadelphia fans for probably being the best fans in the league, and said Rivers was one of the best coaches of all time and that he had always wanted to play for him.
It has also been reported that Harden and Irving are deeply conflicted. A reporter asked Harden whether Irving's non-vaccination was the reason why he wanted to be traded. Harden's response was: "Frankly, [Irving doesn't get vaccinated] is only a very small part of the reason, Irving and I'm still good friends." But Harden also admitted: "[Irving's case] definitely affects the whole team." Irving and Durant won the game together to cover up a lot of things, and unfortunately we only played 16 games together. Harden once joked after a game that he was going to give Irving a shot.
Speaking about his experience of changing teams many times, Harden said: "Things are not going as I planned... But I'm happy to be here now. Harden called playing for Philadelphia a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Next, Harden talked about his new backcourt partner, Maxi. 'His confidence is bursting, his attack is great and I will do my best to help him." Speaking of teammate Tobias Harris, he said Harris is a player who is fully capable of averaging 20+ per game, "It's my job to get him to play that level and we all know how talented he is. ”
Referring to his comeback time, Harden said he would play after the All-Star Weekend, stressing that everything will get better and better, and [the debut day] should not be too long. He believes the 76ers will be able to win the championship this season and said the players here have the right mindset. So far this season, Ha has averaged 22.5 points, 8 rebounds and 10.2 assists, and the 76ers are currently 34 wins and 22 losses, ranking fourth in the East.