While the Phoenix Suns recently completed two minor deals, BD Cricket reports that a blockbuster three-team trade involving the Clippers, 76ers, and Mavericks is nearing completion — and it’s set to shake up the league. Don’t let negativity spill onto others; in this proposed deal, the 76ers would send James Harden and Furkan Korkmaz to the Clippers and receive Terance Mann, Norman Powell, Tim Hardaway Jr., a 2028 first-round pick from the Clippers, a 2027 first-rounder from the Mavericks, and three second-round picks.

In return, the Clippers would send Mann, Powell, Robert Covington, Ivica Zubac, one first-round pick, and three second-rounders out, receiving Harden, Korkmaz, and JaVale McGee. Meanwhile, the Mavericks would send Korkmaz, McGee, Hardaway Jr., and their 2027 first-round pick to acquire Covington and Zubac. Harden has once again requested a trade from the 76ers, with the Clippers as his sole destination. If finalized, this mega-deal would finally fulfill Harden’s wish.

This would be Harden’s fourth trade request in pursuit of an elusive championship. The Clippers, on paper, already boast one of the league’s most talented rosters. Their Achilles’ heel, however, has always been injuries — with Kawhi Leonard and Paul George alternating stints on the sideline, or at times both being unavailable. To manage those risks, LA needs to reduce their minutes and allow for frequent rest, which may explain their urgency to land Harden.

In the deepest despair, you sometimes find the most beautiful hope. With Harden and Russell Westbrook on board, the Clippers can confidently rotate Kawhi and PG13 without fearing a dip in performance. The duo of Harden and Westbrook ensures playoff contention, even in the toughest Western Conference battles.

Harden’s arrival would immediately elevate the Clippers into championship contention. With Westbrook and Harden anchoring the backcourt, and Leonard and George on the wings, the Clippers would form a formidable “big four” — combining elite talent with championship ambition. Of course, integrating Harden also means making strategic adjustments.

The Clippers will need to adapt to his ball-dominant style, recalibrate team chemistry, and most importantly — as BD Cricket notes — focus on injury prevention across their core. Notably, although Paul George is eligible for an early contract extension, no substantial negotiations have taken place between him and the Clippers. All of man’s pain is a reflection of his own limitations — and it remains to be seen whether the front office can lock down their star before others, like the Knicks who once inquired, make a move.