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“They Would Develop Bad Eating Habits”: NBA Fans Mobbed ‘Bad Mentor’ James Harden as Trade Rumors Turn into a Mockery

Published 12/31/2022, 12:01 PM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

The Houston Rockets are looking to rebuild their roster. In doing so, they aim to find the perfect balance between young talented stars and experienced veterans. Earlier this week, a report stated that a potential James Harden and Rockets reunion was on the cards. James Harden, who previously spent nine seasons with the Rockets, is entering free agency next season. As per reports, if he doesn’t sign a contract extension with his current team, the Philadelphia 76sixers, then Harden might be seen flaunting the Rockets jersey once again. The NBA Community was left stunned after the report spread through the Internet, especially considering the manner in which Harden left Houston. Recently, fans flooded social media once again after suggestions of Harden being a mentor to young Rockets players were floated on the Internet.

In terms of young talent, the Rockets have the likes of Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr. They also have the limited experience of veterans like Eric Gordon, Boban Marjanovic, and Kevin Porter Jr. These individuals have contributed to the team’s occasional wins. However, the Rockets are on the hunt for a leader and a true mentor for the young squad to lead them more consistently. In an interview with Fox Sports, an NBA general manager was asked if Harden fits the role of being a good mentor. The anonymous GM laughed and said, “Uh, no”. Following the release of this article, NBA Fans chimed in with their opinions.

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NBA Twitter weighs in on James Harden being a mentor

What could be a potential reality has turned into a mockery. Fans pointed out that Harden wasn’t an ideal leader for his whimsical tendencies and lack of work ethic. Reports criticizing the 10-time All-Star’s irregular lifestyle of partying and unhealthy eating habits emerged during his days with the Houston Rockets. The 2018 MVP also grabbed headlines for his gentlemen’s club visits. During the end of his stint, several people in the NBA community accused him of intentionally putting on weight to force a trade out of H-town.

Hence, many fans believed that he wouldn’t be a good influence on a young team, if not the contrary. However, some stated that while Harden wouldn’t be a great mentor, he could do relatively well in the role. Here are some of the reactions from fans.

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James Harden’s season so far

The Philadephia 76ers started their season with 4 losses. However, the tough times didn’t last long. Right now, the 76ers are 5th on the Eastern Conference table with a record of 20-14.

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James Harden missed a few games earlier in the season due to a foot injury. However, the point guard is back on track for the season, averaging 22 points and 11.1 assists per game. His contributions have proved to be vital for the 76ers so far.

USA Today via Reuters

The 76ers have had a good run so far. However, they are aware that winning the NBA title is an uphill task. But the team is ready for the same.

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Watch This Story – LeBron James, James Harden, Trae Young and Other NBA Stars Give Lionel Messi His Flowers After Argentina’s FIFA World Cup Win

Do you think that James Harden can don the hat of a mentor? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by:

Shriya Rajachandra

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Shriya Rajachandra is an NBA writer for EssentiallySports. She earned a bachelor's degree in Journalism, Psychology, and Communicative English. Shriya previously interned at The New Indian Express, but her favorite journalist, Marcus Thompson motivated her to start writing about basketball.
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Edited by:

Satagni Sikder