James Harden Told 76ers He'd Take Less Money on New Contract to Improve Team's Roster

When James Harden decided to return to the 76ers this summer, he was willing to sacrifice for the greater good.

In an interview with Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes, the 10-time All-Star said he wanted the Philadelphia 76ers president of basketball operations to focus on strengthening the roster while taking him into account.

"I had conversations with Daryl, and it was explained how we could get better and what the market value was for certain players. I told Daryl to improve the roster, sign who we needed to sign and give me whatever is left over. This is how bad I want to win. I want to compete for a championship. That's all that matters to me at this stage. I'm willing to take less to put us in position to accomplish that."

It's not as if Harden is making the veteran minimum because he's still getting $34 million a year from Philadelphia. He left some money on the table when he declined his player option.

Shams Charania @ShamsCharania

Sources: James Harden is taking a $15 million paycut for next season that allowed Philadelphia to elevate roster — with sole focus on a championship run in 2023. Harden opted out of his $47M player option and now plans to sign a new two-year deal with a player option in Year 2.

The savings were used to sign P.J. Tucker to a three-year $33 million contract with the 76ers.

Harden can frame his contract as a magnanimous act, but it's also likely that neither the 76ers nor any other contender was willing to table a max offer his way. It was reported in May that Philly didn't want to go down that route.

Get Up @GetUpESPN

.@WindhorstESPN says to pump the brakes on Harden returning to Philadelphia next season with a max deal.

"Nobody in the NBA believes that the Sixers are going to give James Harden a max contract.” pic.twitter.com/vASDx6p0ek

The stock of the 32-year-old has fallen recently. He averaged 22.0 points, 10.3 assists and 7.7 rebound during his time with the Brooklyn Nets and the Philadelphia 76ers. His shooting percentage was cause for concern.

Harden went 4-of-9 for 11 points in a loss to the Miami Heat in the playoffs. He attributed his struggles to the team's play.

It looked like a separation between Harden and Philadelphia was possible.

Harden seems to be trying to reverse the narrative. According to a report from Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium, everyone around Harden has understood the focus on his workout regimen this offseason and a championship goal for 2022-23.

Harden told Haynes he is in a good place.

It's not hard to get behind the idea that he can enjoy a return to form with a full off season in Philadelphia. He won't have to deal with the off-court drama that happened in Brooklyn.

If Harden doesn't get off to a good start, the sense of optimism may fade quickly.