The Rockets are caught between a rock and a hard place in the matter of their franchise player James Harden.
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Head coach Stephen Silas was speaking to the press on Media Day, and he had to field quite a few questions about the Beard. He was reportedly partying with Lil Baby just a few hours ahead of the Rockets’ first practice.
The NBA has set down Covid-19 protocol rules which prohibit players from hanging out at public places. Failing these, a player has to isolate himself ahead of returning to team practice sessions.
Stephen Silas: James Harden did not take participate in today’s practice. Cannot practice with team due to COVID-19 protocols. The Rockets expect him to be in for an indvidual workout this evening.
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) December 6, 2020
Harden was set to have an individual practice session after missing the team session day before yesterday.
Coach Stephen Silas makes statement about James Harden to the press
The newly appointed head coach has his franchise player on a loose leash. Given the flux in the team and Harden’s declining trust in the Rockets front office, all the recipes for a blockbuster trade are present.
Silas himself, however, has unwittingly fed these rumors.
Stephen Silas on James Harden’s commitment to the Rockets: “That’s a question you’re going to have to ask him when he gets here.”
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) December 6, 2020
He does believe, however, that Harden will return for the start of the season. According to him, Harden is still an integral part of his plans for next season.
Stephen Silas has not been in communication with James Harden this week. “I want him here, and I want him to be a big part of what we’re doing,” Silas said. “I’m excited to coach him.” Silas is uncertain when Harden could be cleared to practice. https://t.co/dyrEX2C1KB
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) December 6, 2020
If the Rockets are able to get off to a good start with Wall, Cousins and Wood, they might be able to convince Harden to stay on for the season.
