Brooklyn guard James Harden will miss his third straight game with a hamstring injury Tuesday night when the Nets host the Boston Celtics.
The latest absence comes as Thursday’s trade deadline approaches. Speculation has been heavy that Harden could be moved to the Philadelphia 76ers prior to the deadline.
Harden, 32, was not interested in the topic on Tuesday and declined comment as he left the facility after the club’s shootaround.
Brooklyn coach Steve Nash said on Sunday that the team will not trade Harden. That hasn’t halted the speculation.
The Nets have lost eight straight games entering the contest with Boston.
Veteran guard Patty Mills is unsure if the trade speculation is a distraction for Harden.
“I think what he’s trying to do at the moment is take care of his hammy and look after it,” Mills told reporters on Tuesday. “And do everything in his power to make sure he’s healthy.”
Harden is averaging 22.5 points, 10.2 assists and 8.0 rebounds in 44 games this season. He was a three-time scoring champion with the Houston Rockets before being traded to the Nets during last season.
The Nets have been without forward Kevin Durant (knee) for the past 11 games. Also, guard Kyrie Irving only plays in road games due to his unvaccinated status.
Forward Nic Claxton (hamstring) also has been ruled for Tuesday’s game.
–Field Level Media
