Sometimes rumors come out of nowhere, and the latest from Jeff Goodman when it comes to the Charlotte Bobcats certainly qualifies. In his latest column looking at NBA Draft trade possibilities, he talks about the Oklahoma City Thunder potentially looking to move James Harden — to the league’s worst franchise.
Goodman writes, “One source said that Oklahoma City’s James Harden could be in play due to the Thunder’s salary situation following next season. GM Sam Presti already has Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook on the books for more than $29 million next season — and both Harden and Serge Ibaka will command huge contracts after the 2012-13 campaign.”
Thomas Robinson or Michael Kidd-Gilchrist or Bradley Beal would be in play at the No. 2 overall slot in the 2012 NBA Draft. The Thunder would certainly benefit from having an impact young player join the team, but the Thunder are already rolling along as it is with the NBA’s best young core. The team has committed to locking up its young players and, if it’s wiling to pay the tax, they can continue to keep all players together.
Simply put, there’s no reason to move Harden with the money this team is bringing in as it is currently formed. Harden has proved that the best is yet to come and even a No. 2 overall choice might not be enough to sway Sam Presti to break up his core.
Still it’s an interesting rumor to say the least and it should get people talking — one way or the other.
For more on the 2012 NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Miami Heat, check out Welcome To Loud City and Peninsula Is Mightier. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.