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Despite a disappointing end to the 2022-23 season, James Harden’s financial future looks promising. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst revealed that there is considerable interest around the NBA in securing Harden with a lucrative four-year contract exceeding $200 million.

“Paying James Harden $50 million a year over four years, which is what it sees like there appears to be an appetite for, it’s insane,” Windhorst said on The Hoop Collective podcast.

A potential reunion with the Houston Rockets has been frequently mentioned, with ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reporting that the Rockets are actively pursuing Harden. It’s now a “very real possibility” that Harden may return to Houston.

Although Harden has faced criticism for underperforming in critical moments and his overall decline as a player, teams are still willing to invest in his talent.

Despite a disappointing playoff run, the Sixers may have no choice but to offer Harden a significant contract, as finding a suitable replacement would prove challenging. The Rockets’ interest in Harden is likely to drive up the price, surpassing his actual market value.

In the 2022-23 season, Harden averaged 21 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game in 36.8 minutes of play.