Last Updated on May 4, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake
James Harden has been involved in several significant trades throughout his NBA career. Here’s a comprehensive overview:
1. Oklahoma City Thunder to Houston Rockets (October 2012)
In October 2012, the Oklahoma City Thunder traded James Harden to the Houston Rockets. The Thunder received Kevin Martin, Jeremy Lamb, two first-round picks (which became Steven Adams and Mitch McGary), and a second-round pick (used to select Alex Abrines). This trade was primarily influenced by financial constraints, as the Thunder extended Serge Ibaka instead of Harden. Harden went on to become a franchise cornerstone for the Rockets, earning the 2018 MVP award and leading the team to multiple deep playoff runs.
2. Houston Rockets to Brooklyn Nets (January 2021)
In January 2021, Harden was traded to the Brooklyn Nets as part of a four-team blockbuster deal involving the Rockets, Nets, Pacers, and Cavaliers. The Rockets received Victor Oladipo, Dante Exum, Rodions Kurucs, and multiple draft picks. Harden joined Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving in Brooklyn, forming a formidable trio aimed at contending for a championship.
3. Brooklyn Nets to Philadelphia 76ers (February 2022)
On February 10, 2022, the Nets traded Harden and Paul Millsap to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, Andre Drummond, and two first-round picks. This move reunited Harden with former Rockets general manager Daryl Morey, who was then the 76ers’ president of basketball operations.
4. Philadelphia 76ers to Los Angeles Clippers (October 2023)
In October 2023, after expressing dissatisfaction with the 76ers’ management, Harden was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers along with P.J. Tucker and Filip Petrušev. The 76ers received Marcus Morris, Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, KJ Martin, multiple draft picks, and a pick swap in return.