NBA looking into 76ers for potential interference

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According to a source familiar with the investigation, the NBA is looking into the Philadelphia 76ers for potential interference in the free-agent signings of James Harden, P.J. Tucker [{ "selector": ".giusf-a", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "delay": "1500ms", "keyframes": [ {"offset": 0, "opacity": 0}, {"offset": 1, "opacity": "1"} ] }]

The team is assisting with the probe, the individual said while requesting anonymity because the investigation is ongoing.

With a contract worth just over $68 million, Harden will get around $33 million this season and a further $35 million if he exercises his player option for the 2023–24 season.

But compared to what he might have made under his prior contract, Harden will get around $14.5 million less this next season.

Last month, Harden exercised his $47.4 million option for the next season but refused it because he wanted to give the 76ers freedom to make roster improvements and contend for a title. [{ "selector": ".zwzrm-a", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "delay": "1500ms", "keyframes": [ {"offset": 0, "opacity": 0}, {"offset": 1, "opacity": "1"} ] }]

There are concerns about Harden and the Sixers having "a handshake deal in place on a future contract," according to ESPN on Friday. [{ "selector": ".srkmg-a", "duration": "500ms", "fill": "forwards", "delay": "1000ms", "keyframes": [ {"offset": 0, "opacity": 0}, {"offset": 1, "opacity": "1"} ] }]