When the Philadelphia 76ers acquired NBA superstar James Harden, they had the Larry O’Brien Trophy in mind. Unfortunately, the Miami Heat had similar ambitions this season.

Whether they’ll get to hoist it at the end of the year remains to be seen. We know the Sixers won’t. The Heat sent them packing in the 2021-22 Eastern Conference Semifinals. Now, they’re left to sit at home and wonder how they can ensure a different result next season.

They probably won’t come to the conclusion that they need to trade James Harden. General Manager Daryl Morey moved heaven and earth to acquire him.

Cutting ties after half a season in the City of Brotherly Love is probably not an option he’s putting on the table.

Consider this a thought experiment. The Sixers could determine that Harden is clearly past his prime. With Tyrese Maxey emerging as a star, they could opt to bolster their frontcourt depth by moving Harden.

Meanwhile, the Sacramento Kings aim to break the league’s longest playoff drought in 2022-23. They’d probably do just about anything to improve. Here are two trade packages that land them The Beard.

Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G De’Aaron Fox, F Harrison Barnes

Sacramento Kings Receive: G James Harden

We know this isn’t going to happen this summer. Before you proceed to shoot the messenger, please re-read that sentence. We’re merely speculating on possibilities.

Fox was a staple in Ben Simmons trade rumors before the Philadelphia 76ers put them to bed. It felt like the Kings were in hot pursuit of Simmons, and ready to give up their franchise point guard in the process of acquiring him.