An interesting new rumor claims James Harden was hoping to reunite with Kevin Durant before the NBA trade deadline, but the Houston Rockets were not interested.
A few weeks ago, many experts suggested that this year's NBA trade deadline would be a snoozefest. However, it became very active, and several big-name stars were surprisingly moved just before 3:00 PM ET on Thursday. One of them was future Hall of Famer James Harden.
After rumors earlier this season that the Los Angeles Clippers might try to move some of their expensive veterans to open up future cap space, they pulled the trigger on a trade that sent the 11-time All-Star to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a straight-up swap for Darius Garland.
The move surprised some as the rumors had previously surfaced when the Clippers were in a bad slump. However, they have been one of the best teams in the NBA over the past month. However, reports claim that the one-time MVP was forced to make the move after LA rejected his request for a contract extension.
Rockets had no interest in reuniting James Harden before trade deadline
This was the latest example of Harden's history of forcing a trade when he becomes unhappy with his situation. He did so during previous stints with the Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets. That, along with his lack of performance in the playoffs, is probably why Houston turned down the opportunity to acquire him this week.
According to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, Harden was hoping a third round with Durant – this time with a reunion in Houston – was something he was interested in before the trade deadline. Unfortunately for them, the Rockets did not share this sentiment and shut down any consideration of a trade.
His stance was understandable. Although he will bring ball handlers they could use, his lack of defense and underwhelming performance in the playoffs will not improve a team with real hopes of making the NBA Finals this spring.
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