There’s a good chance that James Harden is the best player you’ve ever seen wearing a Houston Rockets jersey.
If you are an older fan, you took advantage of Hakeem Olajuwon’s good days. If you’re a much older fan, you might be fighting for Moses Malone. However, Harden has good reasons to beat him as well. Harden is probably the second best player in Rockets history.
Does that mean they have to roll out the red carpet? Is there room in Space City for the intrepid explorer of the NBA’s offensive limits?
Fadeaway World thinks so. They just offered a deal to send Harden back to the Rockets.
Does this make sense?
If you have read SpaceCityScoop, you know with our methodology here. We wonder if the trade makes sense relative to market value and if it makes sense for the Rockets.
This one passes the first smell test. We’re basically looking at a first-round pick for Harden. Some people (*ahem*) would argue that parting with Brooks’ contract is an added benefit. In fact, the Clippers are getting shortchanged here.
Sure, Harden is past his prime. He still has a 4.1 Box Plus/Minus (BPM). That’s an All-Star-caliber mark. Harden’s contract isn’t a liability, either. He’s set to make $33.6 million next year, has a player option through 2025-26, and is an unrestricted free agent after that.
What’s not to like about this deal?
Of course, an unprotected first baseman is a reasonable price for Harden. That doesn’t mean the Rockets should pay him.
Here’s an analogy. You’re saving up to buy a house. You have a car, it’s not great, but it gets you from point A to point B. And then a much better car comes along for sale at a good price.
Don’t buy a car! You’re saving up for a house! Sure, it’s a good price, but it’s still expensive enough to put a damper on your home savings plans.
With all due respect, Fred VanVleet is your current car in this analogy. No, he’s not as dynamic an offensive player as Harden, but the Rockets already have him — they don’t need to spend assets to get him.
The house is a superstar. The Rockets have telegraphed their intention to eventually trade him for a renowned player. That unprotected first contract in 2027 is an asset they can use as part of this deal. The Rockets should use it as part of a larger package that would bring in a more impactful player than Harden in 2024.
The idea of reuniting with Harden has obvious sentimental appeal. We wouldn’t rule out the possibility of a reunion, but it would have to come at a reasonable price in free agency. Spending assets on Harden now — even at a reasonable price — would derail the Rockets.
For now, enjoy Harden in your memories.
Grade: B
