Open Extended ReactionsJames Harden is declining his $36.3 million player option and intends to re-sign with the LA Clippers on a two-year, $81.5 million contract, sources told ESPN on Sunday. The second year of Harden's deal has a player option and is partially guaranteed, sources told ESPN. The agreement gives Harden a raise after the 11-time All-Star helped the Clippers exceed most preseason expectations by finishing fifth in the Western Conference while earning All-NBA third-team honors. Harden averaged 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, 5.8 rebounds and 1.5 steals, and he led the NBA with 129 step-back 3-pointers, according to GeniusIQ. The Clippers credited Harden with taking on a leadership role within the locker room and behind the scenes that helped set the tone for the season.