NBA launches inquiry into James Harden calling Daryl Morey a ‘liar’ in China
- Former NBA MVP raised concerns at league office after saying of Morey in Beijing that he would ‘never be a part of an organisation he’s part of’
- Harden also said on Thursday in Houston that he considers his relationship with the 76ers beyond repair
The NBA has opened an inquiry into Philadelphia 76ers star guard James Harden’s public criticism of Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey, ESPN reported on Saturday.
Harden said in China regarding Morey he would “never be a part of an organisation that he’s part of”, which raised concerns at the league office, according to the report.
The NBA, sources told ESPN, wants to know if Harden’s remarks are a hint of a contract holdout, which would violate the league’s new collective bargaining agreement with the players union, or a possible comment on past contract talks with the team that could violate salary cap rules.
The report said Harden has privately said his comments were only aimed at Morey having cut off talks about a trade deal for the backcourt star, who turns 34 next Saturday.
The Sixers had informed Harden, ESPN reported, that the club had not been able to come to terms with the Los Angeles Clippers, Harden’s preferred trade location, and that he should expect to report to the 76ers preseason training camp next month.