Houston Rockets debate: Should trading James Harden be on the table?

The Case for the Houston Rockets fielding offers for James Harden

Site Expert Josh Paredes: Yes, I know. To many Rockets fans, just bringing up the idea of trading James Harden is blasphemy of the highest order. This was displayed clearly within minutes of a poll I put up on our Twitter page that posed the simple question: “Would you be open to shopping James Harden”?

“How can you even think about that?” One follower snapped back. “Absolutely not,” said another. Still, while the majority of respondents wouldn’t entertain the idea (as I expected), the result wasn’t a total blowout.

Let me start my argument by saying this: It would take a lot for the Rockets to part ways with the Beard, and rightfully so. He’s been the NBA’s scoring champion for three seasons running and isn’t showing any signs of slowing down when it comes to productivity. But I’ll save all of that for Anthony to discuss.

When it comes down to it, the city of Houston wants an NBA championship more than anyone. Whether it be due to untimely injuries, disappearing acts in crunch-time situations, or coaching inadequacy, the Rockets haven’t been that close.

Yes, they had multiple chances but fell short against some of the best teams ever in the Golden State Warriors, but there was no Golden State to be found this year. Especially after getting a second MVP to pair with James, this was the year the Rockets were supposed to get it done.

James Harden is capable of leading a championship team, but despite having some very talented rosters, the Houston Rockets haven’t been able to at least make a run to the NBA Finals in his eight seasons. With the team being in the tough spot they’re currently in, the Rockets should be willing to hear teams out on absolutely everyone on the roster, including Harden.

Next: What the Rockets Have to Gain