The Oklahoma City Thunder once boasted one of the most talented rosters in the league. With players like James Harden, Kevin Durant, and Russell Westbrook on the team, a lot of things were expected. However, all three players left in search of championship ambitions. Moreover, all three won the MVP award.

Interestingly enough, a former OKC player revealed that out of all the talents that came out of the Thunder, Harden was the brightest. Talking with former NBA player JJ Reddick, Kendrick Perkins revealed how dangerous Harden was at training.

Perkins said, “He used to bust Russ and KD’s a** at practice, including me… James used to give us work and I saw a few times where he had 40s off the bench. One time we was in Utah and he came off the bench and have 40.“

While the fans knew Harden took off after leaving the Thunder, it is interesting to know he was giving a hard time to KD and Russ even during his time with them.

Despite having insane potential, Harden failed to win the NBA championship. The same applies to Russell Westbrook. However, Kevin Durant found championship success with the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018.

Did James Harden fail his potential?

There is no denying that James Harden is one of the most iconic players of his time. He is widely counted amongst the best Guards to play in the league and his MVP season with the Houston Rockets is more than legendary.

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The Oklahoma City Thunder drafted Harden as the 3rd overall pick in the 1st round of the 2009 draft. Interestingly enough, this is the same draft class as Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry.

He left the OKC for the Houston Rockets after the 2011-12 season and quickly became a sensation. He spent 9 seasons with the Rockets, which is undoubtedly his best time in the NBA.

Moreover, he won the MVP award during the 2017-18 season playing for Houston. Harden averaged 30.4 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.4 rebounds during his MVP season. Although he has had an impressive career so far, there is no denying that Harden could have become much more. 

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What is your favorite memory of James Harden? Let us know in the comments down below.