But it was Harden’s refusal to play for Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey that led to their departures.

“I just focus on what James has done for us,” Clippers coach Ty Lue said before the game. “He’s been really, really good. We wouldn’t be in the position that we are right now as far as being the fourth seed without his play. So just focusing on what he’s brought to our team and how he’s been for us.”

On Wednesday, Tucker missed his lone shot attempt and committed a foul in 3 minutes, 23 seconds of action.

Tucker’s love for Philly

Before the game, Tucker said his one season with the Sixers was great. He also raved over the city and praised that fans that would boo him.

“I mean, [we were] a really good team,” Tucker said of the squad that lost in seven games to the Boston Celtics in the second round of the playoffs. “A really good chance to do something special. We didn’t go as far as we wanted, but I felt it was great. I love the fans here.

“Super motivating still for the love, walking around the city, being around. It’s just how the Sixers fans are, so it’s pretty cool.”

The 38-year-old also talked about being included in the Harden trade. Tucker wanted to remain in Philly, where he was the starting power forward.

“All I can just do is be a professional and keep playing,” he said. “I didn’t have anything to do with it. But you get thrown in stuff sometimes, and that’s just how it works. So it’s just part of the game, part of the business.”

Up next

The Sixers will travel to Cleveland for Friday’s game against the Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. Cleveland lost to the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night, dropping to 44-29. Friday will mark the fourth and final regular-season meeting between the two teams. The Sixers hold a 2-1 series advantage.

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