Spurs: Grading 8 free agent point guard options from 'no thanks' to 'sign now'

San Antonio Spurs, Fred VanVleet
San Antonio Spurs, Fred VanVleet | Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports
7 of 9
James Harden
Boston Celtics v Philadelphia 76ers - Game Six | Tim Nwachukwu/GettyImages

3. James Harden

Harden may have a wandering eye this offseason. The 10-time All-Star is expected to decline his $35.6 million player option to become an unrestricted free agent. There are rumors about him returning to Houston, and their lottery outcome is not expected to alter those plans. With Victor Wembanyama headed to San Antonio, could the Spurs pry Harden away from Philadelphia?

Chris Haynes reported the 6-foot-5 guard desires “a competitive roster and basketball freedom” for his next home. San Antonio may not fit that bill, but playing next to Wemby could be attractive to an aging star searching for his first ring as he enters the twilights of his prime.

If he wants to play next to a star big man, why not just stay in Philadelphia with reigning MVP Joel Embiid? Could this all be a leverage play to get Harden more money from the 76ers?

Verdict: Worth a glance if he looks back

Harden just led the league in assists and has averaged over 10 assists per game for four straight seasons. He is unquestionably one of the best facilitators in the NBA, and he could be a fantastic option to organize the offense for Victor Wembanyama.

Could the 6-foot-5 guard be interested in San Antonio? Just last year, Gregg Popovich had high praise for the former MVP. Could the two link up? It is worth the Spurs poking around.

Schedule