US media lists Harden’s four potential destinations: teaming up with Huazi to chase a championship, or joining the Trail Blazers to activate Yang Hansen?

As of November 29 Beijing time, the Clippers are facing a disappointing season and might opt for a complete rebuild eventually. Is trading James Harden on the table? And which teams fit him best? ClutchPoints has named four potential suitors: the Timberwolves, Trail Blazers, Magic, and Pistons. Here is the related analysis—

Timberwolves: Harden can fill the point guard gap

Timberwolves’ basketball operations president Gersson Rosas is known for bold trades. He spent heavily to acquire Gobert and even traded franchise star Towns to the Knicks. His decisiveness helped the Timberwolves reach the Western Conference Finals two years in a row.

However, the team has struggled to advance further, largely due to issues at the point guard position. Conley is past his prime, and D’Lo has yet to fulfill his potential. The Timberwolves boast top-tier stars like Edwards, plus solid big men such as Gobert, Randle, and Naz Reid. Yet, they lack a playmaking leader who can efficiently distribute the ball to these players.

If the Timberwolves become active again in the trade market, it would not be surprising, making them likely contenders to pursue Harden. Harden was once a top scorer averaging over 30 points per game, with scoring prowess comparable to legends like Chamberlain and Jordan. Now in the latter stages of his career, he has successfully transformed into one of the league’s elite facilitators.

In fact, Harden has twice led the NBA in assists. He represents the passing strength the Timberwolves desperately need and could form a dynamic scoring trio alongside Edwards and Randle. For a lineup featuring defensively oriented players like Gobert, such a scoring combination is crucial. To balance salaries, the Timberwolves might have to trade Reid, Conley, D’Lo, and Ingles. Although this would weaken their backcourt depth, acquiring a capable starting point guard could well justify the cost.

Trail Blazers: Poised to welcome a franchise star

This season, the Trail Blazers have posed significant challenges to all their Western Conference rivals. Their roster is deep, blending rookies with experienced veterans who understand their roles. Yet, the team clearly lacks a key piece—a true star to lead their offense.

Harden’s trade discussions are likely to revolve around Henderson. The former third overall pick has yet to meet pre-draft expectations but is working hard to shed the “bust” label after a modest rookie season. Additionally, Robert Williams and Sable’s contracts might be included in the deal. Harden has a history of unlocking the potential of centers and could possibly activate Yang Hansen in Portland.

Despite Henderson missing several games this season due to a hamstring injury, the Trail Blazers have performed well. If they could acquire a star of Harden’s caliber, they might be willing to part with this high draft pick. Meanwhile, the Clippers urgently seek to rejuvenate their roster and would find acquiring a recent high pick very attractive.

Lillard remains another core star for Portland, though he will miss this season’s games. Fans hope he can return next season at peak form. However, pairing Lillard with Harden in the backcourt carries risks—both are past their prime and their defensive skills have declined. Fortunately, Portland has many defensive specialists to compensate for this weakness.

Kling is one of the league’s top shot blockers, Kamara excels in on-ball defense, and Jrue Holiday can partner with Harden or Lillard in the backcourt. Holiday is regarded as one of the best defensive guards ever. Even if trading for Harden doesn’t immediately elevate Portland’s level significantly, avoiding such a risk might leave the team stuck as a middle-tier squad.

Magic: Continuing to boost shooting ability

For years, the Magic have had strong size and defensive capabilities. Therefore, improving their shooting has been a top priority. They previously spent heavily to acquire Bane, reflecting this team-building strategy, which clearly won’t stop here. Harden is known for his elite three-point shooting, ranking second all-time in made threes.

Harden fits very well with Banchero and Wagner Jr. Even if Harden has defensive shortcomings, the Magic’s other players can cover for them. His arrival would greatly enhance the Magic’s offensive spacing and create more scoring opportunities for their core players.

To finalize a trade with the Clippers for Harden, the Magic might need to send Saggs and Wagner Sr. Saggs has performed consistently when healthy but has missed many games recently due to injuries. The Magic as a whole have been plagued by injuries in recent seasons. Although Harden is no longer young, this trade could help alleviate some of the team’s injury woes.

Originally, many expected the Magic to make a breakthrough this season, but that goal has yet to materialize. With Eastern Conference stars like Tatum and Haliburton ruled out this season, now is an ideal moment for the Magic to act decisively and push for strong results. Although their tradeable draft picks are limited after acquiring Bane, Saggs remains a player who could attract the Clippers’ interest.

Pistons: Going all out for success

The Pistons have exceeded expectations this season. Before losing to the Boston Celtics, they had a 13-game winning streak, tying the franchise record. Just two seasons ago, this team set the NBA record for the longest losing streak. Today’s Pistons roster is young, with players who are fast and athletically gifted.

While the Pistons have a capable veteran shooter in Duncan Robinson, three-point shooting remains a clear weakness. Core player Cunningham shoots under 30% from beyond the arc, and players like Duren, Osar Thompson, and Hollan are also considered poor shooters.

If Harden joins, he would bring fresh energy to the Pistons’ offense and could be a key piece in their push for the Finals. His pairing with the tall and playmaking Cunningham would form a strong offensive duo. Harden might even be traded to Detroit alongside Paul in exchange for Tobias Harris and LeVert, although LeVert’s performance this season has been underwhelming.

For Harden and Paul, this trade would be significant. This season marks Paul’s final year in the league, and both could use this opportunity to chase a championship. Meanwhile, the Pistons need to strengthen their backup point guard depth, a need Paul’s arrival would help fulfill perfectly.