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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Despite being considered one of the top contenders the last season, the Houston Rockets left the playoffs disappointed once again. Losing to the Los Angeles Lakers and being kicked out in the Western Conference Semi-Finals, it raised many questions about their competence. Many raised fingers at James Harden for not stepping up during clutch moments.

Harden has led the Rockets to the playoffs in all seven seasons. Throughout, he has continued to be one of the topmost players in the league in assists, three-pointers, free-throws, and many more. Although these statistics are impressive, they haven’t been enough in bringing home a championship.

Being a skilled player and tapping that greatness when the situation demands are two very different things. This is exactly where Harden has been lacking. Unable to perform in pressure-filled moments has made spectators second-guess his potential. However, coach John Lucas still believes in the Former MVP.

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John Lucas considers James Harden as one of the greats

USA Today via Reuters

On the ‘Posecast’, John Lucas explained why Harden is the driving force for the Houston Rockets. Lucas was asked that because he has had the pleasure of coaching Harden, one of the best scorers in the league, is there anybody he can be compared to historically?

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“No,” said Lucas almost immediately. “I told Mike D’Antoni last night. He had 49 points on 16 shots. Think about that. 49 points! I think he’s going to get even better. You know why? Because he can’t go anywhere. He’s got to eat right, got to get his a** in the bed at night. So I think he’s going to play even better and that’s going to be scary. “

“He’s got one of the quickest speed that I’ve ever worked with… And he’s 240 pounds. Every year, he adds something different to his game,” stated Lucas.

The Houston Rockets had many issues with their roster last season, but Harden wasn’t the biggest. This is something the Rockets know, which is why they are unwilling to let go of the star. Russell Westbrook‘s campaign didn’t last long because of his injury, and their small-ball play did not work out at all. With the offseason in place, what changes will the Rockets bring that will support Harden next season?

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