According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, the NBA is looking into whether the Philadelphia 76ers’ free agency deals with James Harden, P.J. Tucker, and Danuel House violated league regulations.
Several US media sites reported the initiation of an investigation, including The Inquirer.
After Harden declined his $47.4 million player option for the 2022-23 season and ultimately resigned with the organization at a paycut of around $14 million for the next season, Philadelphia had salary cap space to bring in Tucker and House.
James Harden has reportedly signed a two-year agreement worth $35.6 million, which includes a player option for 2023-24.
A handshake deal on Harden’s future contract has been questioned, according to ESPN, because it would go beyond the standards put out in the collective bargaining agreement.
The Inquirer reports that the 76ers are assisting with the investigation, citing an unnamed source.
Harden, a 10-time All-Star, inked his new contract on Wednesday.
In a sensational deal involving the Brooklyn Nets, he was acquired by the 76ers in February.
Harden stated on Wednesday, “This is where I want to be.” I want to win here, and I believe we have the pieces to do so.”
With the advent of 2019, the NBA enacted stricter punishments for “tampering,” which is defined as “illegal contact or negotiation” with current or potential free agents. For breaching the regulations, teams can be penalized or lose draft picks.