
USA Today via Reuters
Dec 26, 2020; Portland, Oregon, USA; Houston Rockets shooting guard James Harden (13) dribbles the ball during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Dec 26, 2020; Portland, Oregon, USA; Houston Rockets shooting guard James Harden (13) dribbles the ball during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
James Harden made his return to the Houston Rockets after being away from training camp. There was a lot of controversy surrounding Harden in the preseason. He no-showed during the training camp and was found partying in different parts of the country. Many believed Harden was trying to force his way out of the Houston Rockets. But Harden has looked phenomenal after returning, dropping 44 points in his first game back.
James Harden on setting up off-ball: "Coach [Stephen Silas] does a good job of that. Putting me in [different] positions. Not always on the basketball, but off the ball and scoring positions….First game with all of us together. We will watch film and get better." #Rockets
— Alykhan Bijani (@Rockets_Insider) January 1, 2021
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James Harden spoke to the press after the Rockets’ win. He gave his stamp of approval for new head coach Stephen Silas and his new teammates. He said, “Coach [Stephen Silas] does a good job of that. Putting me in [different] positions. Not always on the basketball, but off the ball and scoring positions…First game with all of us together. We will watch film and get better.”
Harden had another good game against the Sacramento Kings. He put up 33 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds as the Rockets defeated the Kings. Harden played with his new teammates, DeMarcus Cousins, Christian Wood, and John Wall for the first time, and they all linked up really well.
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James Harden – An uncertain future
Despite all the turmoil surrounding Harden, the Rockets are looking strong as the season begins. They have a solid team that, on paper, looks like it can challenge any team in the NBA. With a new coach and a revamped roster, the Rockets will hope to build momentum as the season goes on.
However, Harden’s future is still a mystery. Despite him returning to play, it is clear that he does not see his future with the Houston Rockets. Harden is angling for a trade to another team. Yet, no team has been able to meet the demands of the Houston Rockets. Harden will be waiting to see where he ends up before the trade deadline.

USA Today via Reuters
Dec 28, 2020; Denver, Colorado, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) and guard David Nwaba (2) speak in the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
For Harden, the possibility of waiting for free-agency is not viable. He still has several years on his contract and will be past his prime when he enters free agency again. His best option would be to find a team ready to trade for him, or to stay with Houston and run it back.
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Harden’s future will continue to be a subject of discussion as the season goes on. For now, James Harden is a Houston Rockets player and looking good in H-Town colors.
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