Grade the Trade: Rockets reunite with James Harden in wild proposal

There is a strong chance that James Harden is the best player you've ever seen suit up for the Houston Rockets.

If you're an older fan, you enjoyed Hakeem Olajuwon's prime. If you're a much older fan, you might go to bat for Moses Malone. Although, Harden has a strong case over the late, great big man as well. Harden is likely the second-best player in Rockets history.

Does that mean they should roll out the red carpet? Is there space in Space City for the intrepid explorer of the NBA's offensive limitations?

Fadeaway World thinks so. They've just proposed a deal to send Harden back to the Rockets.

Does it make sense?

Rockets reunite with Bearded savior in new proposal

If you've been reading SpaceCityScoop, you're familiar with our methodology here. We're asking whether the trade makes sense regarding market value and whether it makes sense for the Rockets.

This one passes the first smell test. We're basically looking at one first-round pick for Harden. Some people (*ahem*) would argue that moving on from Brooks' contract is an additional benefit. If anything, the Clippers are getting shorted here.

Sure, Harden is past his prime. He still boasted a Box Plus/Minus (BPM) of 4.1. That's an All-Star caliber mark. Harden's contract isn't burdensome either. He's set to make $33.6 million next year, he's got a player option heading into 2025-26, and then he's an Unrestricted Free Agent.

What's not to love about this deal?

The Rockets should use their brains, not their hearts

Sure, one unprotected first is a fair price for Harden. That doesn't mean the Rockets should pay it.

Here's an analogy. You're saving for a house. You have a car - it's not great, but it gets you from point A to point B. Now, you've come across a much better car on sale for a good price.

Don't buy the car! You're saving for a house! Sure, it's a good price, but it's still expensive enough to impede your house-saving plans.

Without meaning to be disrespectful, Fred VanVleet is your current car in this analogy. No, he's not as dynamic of 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 intentions to eventually trade for a big-name player. That unprotected 2027 first is an asset they can use in that deal. The Rockets should use it as part of a larger package that brings in a player who's more impactful than Harden in 2024.

The idea of reuniting with Harden has clear sentimental appeal. We wouldn't rule out the possibility of an eventual reunion, but it should come at a reasonable price in free agency, Spending assets on Harden now - even at a fair price point - would knock the Rockets off-course.

For the time being, enjoy Harden in your memories.

Grade: B