James Harden surprised by Rockets’ rapid rebuild
James Harden has experienced multiple transformations during his time with the Houston Rockets. As a player, he witnessed the franchise undergo extensive shifts, from rotating head coaches to reconfiguring the roster with high-profile stars. He played alongside notable figures such as Dwight Howard, Chris Paul, and Russell Westbrook, with the organization continually striving to optimize its lineup around Harden’s unique skill set.
The result? Eight consecutive playoff appearances, including two trips to the Western Conference Finals and three exits in the second round. Harden came tantalizingly close to a Finals appearance but ultimately recognized that the time had come for the Rockets to embark on a new chapter. Sometimes, a fresh start is essential for all parties involved, even when one side may not be entirely ready to let go.
Harden’s departure in 2021 marked the beginning of a comprehensive rebuild for Houston. This transformation encompassed all levels of the organization, starting with the hiring of Stephen Silas to succeed Mike D’Antoni as head coach. Longtime general manager Daryl Morey also departed, followed soon after by Tad Brown, the team’s CEO. The franchise even saw the retirement of beloved broadcaster Bill Worrell, signaling a new era in Houston.
Despite the upheaval, the Rockets emerged from the Harden trade with a treasure trove of draft picks, a silver lining that held uncertain potential at the time due to the unpredictable lottery system. However, the subsequent seasons of on-court struggles were challenging for fans to endure. Many games were decided well before the final buzzer as the team worked diligently to evaluate which players would contribute to their future.
Under the guidance of general manager Rafael Stone, the Rockets strategically navigated the NBA Draft to pave the way for long-term success. Talents like Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, and Reed Sheppard were all brought into the fold, with the latter two acquired thanks to the assets gained from the Harden trade. Additionally, Jalen Green, who was the top pick in the 2021 draft, eventually became part of a trade that secured Kevin Durant, one of the league’s all-time greats.
After a thrilling last-second victory over Harden’s Los Angeles Clippers, he reflected on the Rockets’ swift transformation. “Amazing. You know what I mean? Alpi and Amen. Jabari. Their growth. And obviously they have some really good structure. Obviously you add KD into that mix. And you have the vets around them. You know what I mean? In Steven Adams and other guys like that. They’re a good team,” he said, highlighting the impressive progress of Houston’s young core.
Currently, the Rockets boast a record of 16-6, solidifying their position as the third seed in the Western Conference. In stark contrast, Harden’s Clippers find themselves struggling at 6-19, languishing in 14th place in the West. The juxtaposition of these two teams underscores the dramatic shifts that have occurred, both in Houston and Los Angeles, as each franchise charts its path forward in the competitive landscape of the NBA.
