James Harden skips 76ers’ practice for second day in row

“I believe the organization has clearly communicated the situation,” said coach Nick Nurse at the 76ers’ New Jersey facility. “We are taking it day by day and focusing on the energetic practice today. Our attention is on the players who are present.”

Harden has yet to participate in any preseason games. Although he attended training camp and practiced with the 76ers after requesting a trade during the offseason, he expressed last week that his fractured relationship with team president Daryl Morey is irreparable, likening it to a broken marriage. Harden also stated over the summer that he could not play for the 76ers.

One of Harden’s grievances centers around his belief that he deserved a long-term contract with the Sixers after last season, which never materialized, leading to his trade request.

Despite Harden’s previous evasiveness about his trade request, he mentioned the possibility of playing in the Sixers’ preseason finale against Atlanta on Friday. However, Nurse, who is in his first season as coach, expressed doubt regarding Harden’s participation in the game.

“This situation has been ongoing for quite some time,” Nurse stated. “I have a responsibility to focus on the players that are present and fulfill my duties. If the circumstances change, we will adapt. That’s how we operate.”

Over the past decade, Harden has been one of the league’s premier players, earning three scoring titles and the league MVP award in 2018. He led the league in assists last season.