Return to the Rockets! Harden should not stay with the Clippers next season!

After being eliminated by the Nuggets, Harden needs to face a big challenge to stay in the Clippers, first of all, the uncertainty of the championship window. Although the Clippers performed well this season, they lost to the Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs, revealing the problem of insufficient ability to attack at critical moments. Xiao Ka's injury history (knee inflammation) and age (33 years old) are hidden dangers. If he encounters injury again next season, the Clippers' prospects for the championship will be greatly reduced. Harden is 36 years old and his career time is limited. If the Clippers cannot strengthen their lineup within 1-2 years, their dream of championship may gradually fade away.

Harden

is followed by contract and economic interests. Harden has a $36.4 million player option next season. If he chooses to jump out of the contract, he may face a dilemma: renewal of the Clippers: he needs to accept a salary cut to maintain the team's competitiveness, but long-term contracts may limit future choices. Transfer to another team: If you join a championship team (such as the Mavericks and Warriors), you may need to accept a basic salary or a middle-class contract, and your economic interests will be damaged. If Harden values ​​the championship more, he may have to sacrifice some of his economic interests; if he pursues a high salary and a comfortable environment, staying in the Clippers is a safer choice.

1+2=3

Finally, it is the personal role and the team's future plan. The Clippers may adjust their lineup next season to build a team around Harden and Xiaoka, but if Xiaoka declines in form or suffers frequent injuries, Harden will have to bear more offensive responsibilities. In addition, the Clippers management needs to balance current competitiveness with future reconstruction. If the team cannot compete for the championship in the short term, Harden may become a "transitional" player and his role will gradually become marginalized. Therefore, Harden is likely to leave the Clippers and is likely to return to his old team, the Rockets!

Rocket