Contrary to recent reports, the Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers have not engaged in trade discussions that include James Harden, according to Bleacher Report's Jake Fischer

There have been zero trade discussions between the Sixers and Nets regarding James Harden, sources said. And while there are figures in Brooklyn who are open to a Harden for Ben Simmons swap, that concept won’t be entertained by Nets brass before Thursday: https://t.co/e5Ew69Zdx3

— Jake Fischer (@JakeLFischer) February 7, 2022

Rumors began to swirl about a Harden-to-Philadelphia deal last week when The Athletic's Shams Charania reported that the Nets were open to moving the former MVP. Philadelphia would have benefited from such a deal, but it's impact on Brooklyn is less clear.

Ben Simmons was seen as the centerpiece for Brooklyn. He has missed all of Philadelphia's games so far this season, holding out in hopes of forcing the 76ers into a trade. Simmons is once again relegated to waiting for a resolution.

The Daryl Morey-James Harden connection is noteworthy. Morey, who is currently president of basketball operations for the 76ers, was general manager of the Rocker for a majority of Harden's tenure in Houston. Harden has a player option for 2022-23, which means he can opt out and sign elsewhere this offseason.