James Harden’s tenure with the Houston Rockets was glorious, but it didn’t end on good terms.
Harden arrived at training camp late and out of shape, forcing his way out of the team.
But as bad as things ended, he’s been rumored to be interested in a reunion for years now, and the Rockets might not be opposed to that possibility.
As a matter of fact, ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski recently reported that not even winning the lottery would change the Rockets’ mindset about bringing him back.
.@wojespn says there's "a very real possibility" that James Harden returns to Houston 👀
"If [the Rockets] win the lottery … and they're the ones who can draft Victor Wembanyama, my sense is that would not necessarily change the Rockets' intentions to pursue James Harden." pic.twitter.com/TvIXpkYxD3
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) May 15, 2023
The Rockets would obviously take Victor Wembanyama with that No. 1 pick to round up one of the most talented young rosters in the league.
Ime Udoka looks like a perfect fit to develop their young talents, and while some think Harden might not be what they need, his veteran mentorship could also help with their development.
The Rockets made the most of the Harden trade to gather as many young talents as they could, and they’ll still get more picks and pick swaps in years to come.
Alperen Sengun, Kevin Porter Jr., Jalen Green, Tari Eason, TyTy Washington, Jabari Smith Jr., and Josh Christopher are just some of the many prospects they have at their disposal.
Of course, Harden might have to take a step back to favor the young player’s future, but they’ve also lacked a playmaker for two years straight, and he’s one of the best in that regard in the Association.
We’ll have to wait and see, but it makes sense.
NEXT: The Rockets Could Reportedly Trade A Young Star
