While the 2025 NBA offseason promises significant roster changes across the league, two prominent guards appear likely to maintain their current addresses, according to recent reports.
NBA insider Jake Fischer indicates that James Harden is expected to remain with the LA Clippers, while Kyrie Irving should continue his tenure with the Dallas Mavericks, despite both players having contract flexibility.
"No one, to be clear, is forecasting Irving or Harden to leave their current situations in Dallas and Los Angeles," Fischer stated. "Long before he sustained a season-ending knee injury in early March, Irving was widely projected to re-sign this summer with the Mavericks. Harden, meanwhile, appears to be no less entrenched in Clipperland... even after LA's disappointing first-round exit to the Denver Nuggets."
Both veteran guards share similar contract situations heading into the offseason. Fischer noted, "What links Irving and Harden in 2025: The two thirtysomething stars sit atop this summer's anticipated list of free agent point guards, both hold contracts that contain a player option for next season and they are simultaneously seeking longer-term arrangements with their respective teams."
Harden's situation includes a substantial $36.3 million player option for the 2025-26 season, which must be exercised by June 29. Statbet analysts point out that financial constraints could impact negotiations, as the Clippers' flexibility will be limited if they aim to remain under the first apron of the salary cap.
Clippers President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank has been transparent about his intentions regarding Harden's future with the organization.
"Now, because James has a player option, it'd be irresponsible for me not to have contingency plans with it, but I'm going in with the intent that if he doesn't pick up his option, that we're gonna be able to reach an agreement that works well for James and works well for the Clippers," Frank explained during his end-of-season media availability.
Despite the prevailing expectations, NBA history reminds us that surprising departures do occur. The Clippers organization has previously experienced unexpected exits from star players, with both Paul George and Elton Brand leaving the franchise when few anticipated their departures.
