James Harden did not travel with the Philadelphia 76ers to Milwaukee for their season opener against the Bucks, but he apparently wanted to.
Harden returned to the Sixers on Wednesday after a 10-day absence that was categorized as a “personal matter.” Reports said he was prepared to travel with the team to Milwaukee, but he was told he should remain in Philadelphia to get up to speed instead.
According to Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report, Harden initially believed the 76ers were just suggesting that he spend more time ramping up for the regular season. The former MVP did not feel that was necessary, so he showed up to the airport on Wednesday afternoon with the intention of heading to Milwaukee with his teammates.
At that point, sources told Haynes, Harden was stopped by a security official who informed him he did not have permission to accompany the 76ers. General manager Elton Brand and head coach Nick Nurse then spoke to Harden and explained that the team would prefer he remain back to follow a workout plan that includes monitoring his measurables and speed with their tracking system. Harden was frustrated but left the airport without further incident.
Haynes noted that the 76ers insist their priority is to get Harden ready to play in regular-season games. Harden’s camp believes the team feels Harden will be a distraction.
Harden and the 76ers are clearly not on the same page. There was talk that Harden was disappointed last week after trade discussions with one team fizzled out.
The 76ers open their season against the Bucks on Thursday night and then travel to Toronto to face the Raptors on Saturday. They host the Portland Trail Blazers for their home opener on Sunday.
