James Harden Next Team Odds: Will Vogel Get His PG?

The Los Angeles Clippers suffered another early exit from the NBA Playoffs this spring, but despite that, the franchise intends to keep the core of Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and James Harden intact.

The latter of those three stars will be the one to watch this offseason, as he’s been known to sour on his situation faster than expired yogurt. 

Harden is an unrestricted free agent this summer and has been ring-hunting since bullying his way out of Houston back in January 2021. He’s burned bridges in Brooklyn and Philadelphia, and should the Clippers not show him love this offseason, Harden could be headed to his fifth team in five seasons.

Who will that team be? 

There are the NBA odds for James Harden’s next team available for betting, should he not stay with the Clips.

James Harden's next team odds

Team	Odds
Phoenix Suns	+400
Orlando Magic	+500
Los Angeles Lakers	+600
Milwaukee Bucks	+700
New Orleans Pelicans	+800
Houston Rockets	+800
Miami Heat	+900
Memphis Grizzlies	+1,200
Utah Jazz	+1,400
San Antonio Spurs	+1,600
Sacramento Kings	+1,800
New York Knicks	+2,200
Chicago Bulls	+2,500
Oklahoma City Thunder	+2,500
Dallas Mavericks	+3,300
Atlanta Hawks	+3,300
Detroit Pistons	+3,300

Odds as of 5-7-2024.

Favorites to acquire James Harden

Phoenix Suns (+400)

It would be an Arizona homecoming of the former ASU standout, but in order for Harden to land with the Phoenix Suns, they'd need to find a sucker for Bradley Beal’s contract and get its current guard to waive his no-trade clause. Barring that, you’re asking Harden to take a pay cut so the Suns can slide under the cap. I have no clue why Phoenix is a favorite.

Orlando Magic (+500)

OK, now this makes more sense.

Orlando needs points, Harden can score. Orlando needs 3-pointers, Harden has a flashing green light. Orlando has money, Harden would like some money. Are you catching on yet?

The Magic are a playoff team with a young core looking to make the leap, and they'll be aggressive in free agency this offseason. The downside is that Harden may not be the “veteran presence” you want in the locker room right now.

Los Angeles Lakers (+600)

Will Harden walk across the hallway at Cryto.com Arena? The Lakers have bigger fish to fry, with LeBron James likely passing on his player option and holding the Purple and Gold over the coals.

Harden was rumored to be headed to the Lakers last year when things went sideways in Philly, with Los Angeles priced as a +1,800 long shot to bring in the beard. The Sixers opted for the “other” L.A. team.

Milwaukee Bucks (+700)

Milwaukee does need guard depth, especially with Patrick Beverely’s days numbered. Harden to the Bucks would move Damian Lillard to the No. 2 and give reason to “fear the deer” backcourt.

Milwaukee doesn’t have much wiggle room financially, however, and the Wisconsin strip club scene pales in comparison to the City of Angels. That’s a tough sell for Harden.

New Orleans Pelicans (+800)

With rumors the Pels may deal Brandon Ingram away this offseason, New Orleans could be on the hunt for backcourt help. The Pelicans have a decision to make on Jonas Valanciunas (UFA) and could opt for more perimeter scoring and a point guard to free up C.J. McCollum.

Houston Rockets (+800)

The Rockets were rumored to rekindle this relationship when Harden forced his way out of Philadelphia. Houston has the cap room to make it work for both sides but will head coach Ime Udoka welcome a guy like Harden — with all his history — into a young and impressionable locker room? It gives off a real “fox in the hen house” vibe for a Houston team on the rise.

Miami Heat (+900)

Things are getting uncomfortable between the Heat and Jimmy Butler, who's entering the final year of his contract. With the way Pat Riley is running his mouth, who knows what Miami will look like next season? On top of everything that South Beach offers (including soft taxes), Harden would be a great fit for the current roster which needs help at the point guard position.

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