“Rockets coach did a great job of putting me in scoring positions”: James Harden heaps praise on Stephen Silas’ offense, welcomes change

James Harden is quite happy with new Rockets head coach Stephen Silas, contrary to contrasting reports during the offseason.

The 3-time scoring champion has gotten off to another great start to the season personally. Although the Rockets are 1-2 only so far, they got their first W after John Wall and Boogie returned. The duo was quarantined after Covid tracing was done to them.

Wall was pretty good in his first game in Rockets colors. His presence ensured that the Rockets didn’t lack for a playmaker when Harden sat. Wall also took over the role of primary ballhandler quite well – something he might genuinely be better than Russell Westbrook at.

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Amidst all the trade rumors that have come out in the past few days, it would be a bit surprising to see Harden see out this season. But if the Rockets manage to string together some wins, they may be able to persuade him to stay.

James Harden praises the tactics of coach Stephen Silas

Harden knows just how not to feed rumor mongers, having had a ton of experience through his career. His answers to the media are indicative of the same.

“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.”

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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Even if the Rockets do have to trade Harden away, the presence of Wall, Wood and Cousins ensures they don’t necessarily have to tear it down.