Now that Deron Williams is in Brooklyn, James Harden's impending free agency is one of the most intriguing storylines in the NBA.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, fresh off the franchise's first NBA Finals appearance, have one of the most exciting young teams in the NBA. But after giving Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook max contracts, many wonder whether the small-market team can afford to pay Harden as well as Serge Ibaka.
However, Durant doesn't appear too concerned, tweeting that "Harden won't be hitting the market".
NBA players are not known for their mastery of the CBA, so it's hard to know what to make of Durant's comments. While he obviously doesn't want to lose his good friend to free agency, Harden would almost have to take a discount to stay in Oklahoma City long-term, which is something Durant did not do himself.
The Thunder could keep all their stars if they decide to run up a New York Knicks size payroll, but there's no indication that owner Clay Bennett is willing to do that.
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