NBA Rumors: Joel Embiid Pushed Hard for Bradley Beal Trade Before James Harden Deal

Before the Philadelphia 76ers acquired James Harden from the Brooklyn Nets, they might have had another star in their sights.

The Ringer's Bill Simmons reported Thursday on his show that Washington Wizards star Bradley Beal was pushed really hard by Philadelphia 76ers center Andrew Embiid.

Simmons said at the 42 minute mark that there was a reason for the trade to take so long, because the 76ers wanted Harden.

Simmons reported that the three-time All-Star suffered a wrist injury that required season-ending surgery and that he was angling to land in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia might have been better off targeting Beal than Harden.

Harden is having one of his worst seasons in terms of efficiency in the NBA, and his injury troubles underscore the risk in giving him a massive long-term extension if he opts out of his current deal this summer.

The 32-year-old may not age gracefully due to longstanding questions over his conditioning and physical style.

He has had issues with his own. He missed 27 games in the previous two years due to injuries.

He is four years younger than Harden and is better suited to play alongside another All-Star because he does not initiate the offense as frequently as Harden does.

Harden is on pace to finish eighth all-time in that category, with a usage rate of 30.5 percent.

As the deadline neared, there was no indication that Washington was ever going to part with its best player.

The Wizards had low odds of trading Beal unless he requested an exit, according to Stein. Tommy Sheppard said that Washington is hopeful of re-signing him if he opts out.

Before the wrist injury, it would have been easier for Philly to swing a trade for Beal. He was ruled out for the year so there was no chance of the team pursuing that avenue.

Harden can help the Philadelphia 76ers chase a title this season.