Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden is making headlines again, this time with a strategic move set to keep him in L.A. Before his current contract was set to expire after the 2024-25 season, the veteran reportedly opted out of his final year.
The surprising news comes with an even more surprising price tag: a new two-year, $81.5 million deal. This significant investment has ignited debate among NBA fans, many of whom question if the 35-year-old star is still worth such a substantial commitment at this stage of his illustrious career.
Fans React to Harden’s Intended $81.5 Million Contract
Despite his age, Harden still proved his value in the Clippers’ offense last season, averaging 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 8.7 assists. Thanks to that stellar performance, he earned his 11th All-Star selection and his eighth All-NBA team honor (All-NBA Third Team).
Harden’s age, however, remains a topic of debate, especially since he has yet to win an NBA championship. Thus, when ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the guard intends to sign a new two-year, $81.5 million contract with the Clippers, fans on social media were stunned. This reported deal includes a player option for the second year, the 2026-27 season.
Charania posted on X, “BREAKING: 11-time NBA All-Star James Harden is declining his player option and intends to sign a new two-year, $81.5 million contract to return to the Los Angeles Clippers, sources tell ESPN.”
BREAKING: 11-time NBA All-Star James Harden is declining his player option and intends to sign a new two-year, $81.5 million contract to return to the Los Angeles Clippers, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/qQMwkkMjMs
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2025
Many fans were shocked by the reported value. One X user tweeted, “Overpaid like crazy 😭.” Another wrote, “Son, 40 mil a year for a senior citizen is nasty work.” A third fan reacted, “Holy overpay.” However, some fans agreed with him getting a good paycheck. One posted, “Getting paid good.”
Holy overpay
— 👑 (@Lebronin1) June 29, 2025
Son 40 mil a year for a senior citizen is nasty work
— 𝘬𝘩𝘪⚡️ (@MVPSGA) June 29, 2025
While Kawhi Leonard has battled injuries in recent times, and Paul George departed the team prior to the 2024-25 season, Harden played in 79 games during the 2024-25 regular season. Therefore, the Clippers may see him as their most reliable and durable piece.
Last season, the Clippers finished with a 50-32 record and pushed the Denver Nuggets to a Game 7 in the first round of the playoffs. Head coach Tyronn Lue will likely aim to maintain that momentum heading into the upcoming season, emphasizing team stability.
Given these factors, it would not be a surprise if the franchise agrees to pay Harden an average of $40.75 million annually through the 2026-27 season (if he exercises his player option), after which he is expected to hit free agency again. Since the free agency period is currently in its moratorium phase, fans will have to wait until July 6 to see if the deal is officially finalized.
