The NBA’s investigation into James Harden and the Sixers has concluded, according to one NBA insider.
“NBA’s investigation into Philadelphia 76ers potentially violating the new player participation policy by holding James Harden out of a nationally televised game has concluded and no penalty is expected, league sources tell
@NBAonTNT,@BleacherReport,” Chris Haynes reported on X on Tuesday.
After being away from the team for ten days, Harden didn’t travel with Philly for their road games in Toronto and Milwaukee.
He apparently even tried to get onto the team plane to go with them, but was stopped by security.
The NBA quickly made an announcement after Harden missed the team’s opening road game against the Bucks.
“We are looking into the facts around James Harden’s availability tonight to determine whether an approved reason exists for his lack of participation,” league spokesperson Michael Bass said.
Over the summer, the league tightened up their rules about “star players” skipping out on games when they are healthy, in an attempt to curb load management.
It’s hard to know if the NBA found no wrongdoing and the investigation was concluded, or that they simply brought it to a halt because Harden is no longer with the team.
The Beard touched down in LA on Tuesday and went straight to the Clippers facility after finally being traded there.
He met up with owner Steve Balmer and his old pal Russell Westbrook.