The NBPA, which filed a complaint, says James Harden did not break the rules

“We respectfully disagree with the league’s decision to discipline James Harden for recent comments he made that we believe do not violate the rule against public trade demands,” the NBA said in a statement Tuesday night announcing the decision. “We intend to file a grievance and have the matter heard by our arbitrator.”

Earlier on Tuesday, the league announced its decision to fine Harden following an investigation into comments he made during a promotional tour in China on August 14 and in an interview with Houston television station KHOU on August 17. Under the new collective bargaining agreement, which took effect last month.

The league said in its statement that Harden was “indicating that he will not perform the services required under his player’s contract unless he is traded to another team.”

Last month, following another investigation into public and private attitudes by Aaron Goodwin, agent of Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard, the NBA said in a memo sent to all 30 teams that any player or his agent, who makes public or private comments that Indicating that he will not “fully perform the services required under his Player Contract in the event of an exchange” will be subject to discipline from now on.

While appearing in China, Harden criticized the 76ers’ President of Basketball Operations Darryl Morey for not trading him after Harden signed him to a $35.6 million contract for the 2023-24 season.

“Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be part of an organization he belongs to,” Harden said during an Adidas media event in China. “Let me say it again: Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization he is a part of.”

Then, after returning to the United States, Harden gave an interview to KHOU where he was asked if the relationship with Philadelphia was “unsalvageable”.

“I think so,” Harden said.

“I’ve been patient all summer,” he continued. “For me, it’s just about focusing on what I can control and preparing for this season.”

ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported on August 13 that Philadelphia had notified Harden that it had not found a suitable trade deal with Harden’s preferred destination, the Los Angeles Clippers, and that he was expected to report to the team’s training camp starting October 2 — which Harden plans to do. done, according to sources.

Despite the public speculation, Harden has not made any allegations regarding a previous handshake agreement with the Sixers regarding a future contract. Sources said Harden, who turns 34 this month, has exercised his option for next season with Morey expected to work with him on a deal with the Clippers. Over the next several weeks, the sources said, the two teams engaged in many talks but never reached an agreement.

Aside from the drama surrounding Harden’s future, Philadelphia experienced a quiet respite. The 76ers’ George Niang and Chic Melton lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers and Minnesota Timberwolves, respectively, in free agency, while Patrick Beverley and Mo Bamba signed to one-year deals. They also re-signed big men Paul Reid and Montrezle Harrell, as well as replacing Doc Rivers as head coach with former Toronto Raptors head coach Nick Nurse.