Harden is appealing to owner Steve Ballmer because his future is directly in line with those of Leonard and George. He opted into the final year of his contract this offseason, foregoing free agency and surrendering a lot of leverage for himself and the 76ers in the process. He would be coming to LA in the final year before owner Ballmer opens Intuit Dome. While the Clippers weigh potential extensions for Leonard and George, who each have player options after this season, Harden will be a 2024 free agent and is not eligible for an extension. So Harden would match the timeline of the Clippers’ existing stars as the team enters what could be their last chance with the Leonard-George core. -via The Athletic / October 18, 2023