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James Harden #13 of Houston Rockets passes the ball during the preseason game between Toronto Raptors and Houston Rockets at Saitama Super Arena on October 10, 2019 in Saitama, Japan. (Photo by Takashi Aoyama/Getty Images)
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James Harden #13 of Houston Rockets passes the ball during the preseason game between Toronto Raptors and Houston Rockets at Saitama Super Arena on October 10, 2019 in Saitama, Japan. (Photo by Takashi Aoyama/Getty Images)
The Houston Rockets have yet again failed to put together a deep playoff run this year with James Harden as their leader. They were sent home by the Lakers in just the second round in five games.
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This led to major decisions at the Rockets forefront. First, they replaced head coach Mike D’Antoni with Stephen Silas. Later on, the team relieved Daryl Morey from his front office duties.
Daryl Morey joined the 76ers as their president of basketball operations, which has ignited some trade rumors. In particular, due to Morey’s relationship with James Harden, people are speculating if Morey can convince Harden to join Philly.
Rockets’ head coach replied to these rumors on ESPN’s First Take with Stephen A. Smith.
“As far as James [Harden], he is our guy. In the interview process, I talked to both James and Russ and let them know that the reason I want this job is because of them. So I expect those guys to be here. I haven’t heard anything else to the contrary, so that’s how I feel about it and that’s how it’s gonna be.”
Silas’ comments will give Rockets fans a breather. Moreover, ever since Harden joined Houston, they haven’t missed playoffs even a single time. However, winning an NBA championship is a different topic.
Next season, they need both Harden and Westbrook to bring their A-game if they want to have a shot at taking home the trophy.
Will James Harden and Russell Westbrook redeem themselves?
USA Today via Reuters
Sep 8, 2020; Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA; Houston Rockets guard Russell Westbrook (left) celebrates with guard James Harden (13) after dunking against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half of game three in the second round of the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Prior to entering the WCSF, Russell Westbrook was still recovering from an injury. Many believe he was not at 100% during the battle with LA. However, at the end of the day, Russ’ poor performance was a primary reason for the Rockets’ demise.
If he had played like his usual self, there is a chance that the Rockets could have matched better against the eventual champions. But all that’s in the past, they need to focus on contending for a title next season.
If the dynamic duo fails to accomplish anything significant in the 2020-21 campaign, then it could be a time to hit the panic button. Will the Rockets be able to succeed with James Harden as their leader?