James Harden to opt out; Top 5 free agency destinations

4. Portland Trail Blazers

Damian Lillard has been waiting for a big name to join him in Portland for some time, and perhaps this is the year the Trail Blazers finally land a high-prized free agent like Harden. Between Lillard and the Blazers now holding the third pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, it’s possible Portland is a bigger draw for Harden than it might have been before, and it’s also a place he might have more of his desired “basketball freedom” compared to if he joins multiple superstars on a championship contender. With Lillard, Harden, Anfernee Simons and a top-five prospect all locked up for the foreseeable future, Portland could quickly become a title contender in the West. It would be an intriguing spot for Harden and something Portland would have to figure out how to make work when it comes to cap space, but bringing him in could make for a potentially special offseason for general manager Joe Cronin.