James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers are still forging their bond. With his last season exit from the Nets, it’s hard to believe that Harden could actually be loyal to any team. So, when recent rumors emerged of his possible trade back to Houston Rockets, it sounded highly plausible.
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Adrian Wojnarowski, one of the most influential insiders, claimed that Harden and his inner circle were already weighing the possibility of going back to Houston. In his article, Woj wrote:
“All-Star guard James Harden is seriously considering a return to the Houston Rockets in free agency this July — if he decides against a new deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources told ESPN.”
The only reason these reports were surprising was because of the unceremonious means James Harden left Houston. Perhaps that is what led to him getting agitated when asked about it.
James Harden snapped at a reporter
With the reports going viral, James Harden likely knew about them even as he prepared for the game against the Knicks. Before the game, when Harden was asked about it, he showed irritation. He asked reporters why they had chosen to not even wish him a Merry Christmas and ask such a question.
James: “”Why would you ask me about that on Christmas, man?” he said. “You didn’t say Merry Christmas or nothing. You asked me about something that I ain’t even … I’m not answering. I didn’t see nothing.”
(via @PompeyOnSixers, https://t.co/epdItxkFEs) pic.twitter.com/X1p1PJ3nYT
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) December 25, 2022
Harden and the Rockets parted ways on the worst possible note. After a terrible start to the 2020 season, he requested an immediate trade.
When his wishes were not fulfilled, James went after the team and his teammates in press. He claimed that the Rockets were incompetent and no match for teams like the ‘Lakers’. He had also revealed that the team chemistry in Houston was horrible. The subsequent trade sent him to Brooklyn.
Can Harden actually play for the Rockets again?
As per Woj, Harden is still a prime asset in Houston. His sensational stretch there is still remembered by all Rockets fans. After all, for a brief period of time, James Harden was the best player in the world. He was on par with Stephen Curry in 3-point shooting and was an unbelievable offensive weapon.
However, the reaction Harden has given definitely proves that he is not considering the Rockets and that the current rumors are just rumors.