By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
James Harden is running it back with the Clippers.
According to ESPN, the 11-time All-Star is declining his $36.3 million player option and will instead sign a new two-year deal worth $81.5 million to stay in Los Angeles. The second year includes a player option and is partially guaranteed.
The 35-year-old guard is coming off a strong season in which he averaged 22.8 points and 8.7 assists while playing in 79 games — his most in nearly a decade. Harden was key in holding down the fort as the Clippers battled injuries, especially to Kawhi Leonard.
With this move, the Clippers keep one of their core leaders while maintaining financial flexibility moving forward.