The Clippers have continued to make it clear to other teams that James Harden is not someone they are willing to put on the trade table, according to reporting from Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
While there may be league-wide curiosity about his availability, Los Angeles has consistently signaled that moving him is not part of its current plans.
Part of that stance is tied to Harden’s contract situation. He effectively holds significant control over his future, with an implied no-trade clause for the 2025–26 season and a player option worth $42.3 million for 2026–27, of which $13.3 million is guaranteed.
Because of those terms, any potential deal would require Harden’s approval.
Before agreeing to a move, Harden would likely want clarity on whether a new team intended to keep him beyond the July 11 guarantee date or if there would be interest in negotiating a longer-term contract.
That level of uncertainty makes trade talks complicated and helps explain why the Clippers have been firm in their position.
The Clippers are still working with Chris Paul's representatives to find his next team: https://t.co/xkv5xpFRnk
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 28, 2025
