Report: Nets Open to Talk Blockbuster Simmons/Harden Trade Within The Week

In a major unexpected turn of events, the Brooklyn Nets are reportedly now open to discussing a James Harden/Ben Simmons trade in the coming days, before next Thursday's trade deadline. This according to NBA Insider Shams Charania.

Sources: The Philadelphia 76ers are expected to pursue Brooklyn's James Harden ahead of NBA trade deadline Thursday – and the Nets are now open to discussing a deal.

Details on @TheAthletic: https://t.co/asdsGS0Sht
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 4, 2022

We've known for a few weeks now that Philadelphia 76ers GM Daryl Morey has coveted Harden, and was clinging to the idea of retaining his hold-out star Ben Simmons for the offseason in order to swing a sign-and-trade with the Nets for free-agent-to-be Harden.

In addition, we've had reports that Harden is unhappy in Brooklyn, and wanted to join Joel Embiid in Philly. But no one expected it to happen before next Thursday's trade deadline.

If the report from The Athletic is correct, it all could go down within a few days.

"The Nets are believed to be open to discussing a deal, sources with knowledge of the situation tell The Athletic," writes Charania. There’s expectation that both the 76ers and Nets will engage in dialogue on a deal around Simmons for Harden, multiple sources say, with Philadelphia holding a chest of role players in Seth Curry, Tyrese Maxey and Matisse Thybulle that could sweeten a potential package."

Harden unhappy in Brooklyn

Charania also addressed Harden's fit in Brooklyn and his apparent clashing with coach Steve Nash as a key factor in the apparent willingness to consider this deal.

"Sources say there have been growing concerns over Harden’s playing style — one of dominant ballhandling and his own pace from his MVP and All-NBA days in Houston — that contrasts with the free-flowing, organic approach from his two co-stars."

Harden, of course, has a history with Morey, who has no problem with The Beard's playing style, from their days together in Houston.

This could lead to some very interesting scenarios come playoff time in the East.

Maxey being carried out of Wells Fargo Center on KD and Simmons' shoulders after hitting the series-winning shot against the 76ers in the East Finals. Doc says he doesnt know that question or the answer right now when asked if Harden can be the point guard of a championship team.
— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) February 4, 2022