After spending nine seasons with the Houston Rockets and not winning any NBA rings, it was evident that James Harden was frustrated with his situation. In fact, he made his thoughts perfectly clear when he demanded a trade back in the 2020-21 NBA season.
His wish was fulfilled as he joined the Brooklyn Nets and teamed up with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. On paper, this team looked pretty scary, and many believed that they could easily win a few NBA Championships. Well, that didn’t turn out to be the case last season as they were eliminated in the postseason.
Considering the trio didn’t even play a full season together, they were given the pass. However, in the 2021-22 NBA season, fans expected great things from the Nets superteam and James Harden in particular.
Although the Nets started on a good note and led their conference for a while, they fell off the hill after Kevin Durant suffered an injury. Adding to that was the fact that Kyrie Irving returned mid-season and is only allowed to play in home games due to his stance on not getting vaccinated.
Combining all these factors, the burden fell on Harden’s shoulders. Unfortunately, the Beard hasn’t been able to lead the team to many wins without his two supporting superstars available at all times.
Apparently, the Nets are even ready to hear offers for the former MVP before the NBA trade deadline. But how much of it is Harden’s fault? Well, as per Nets reporter Eric Slater, James joined the Nets to win an easy ring. But that is not happening right now and it has affected how he is playing too.
“Reality is James Harden wanted an easy ring. When he realized it wouldn’t be easy, he quit. He has a right to be angry with Kyrie, but this is next-level soft. Playing with Durant should be enough to win a title if he’s as good as he thinks he is.”
Reality is James Harden wanted an easy ring. When he realized it wouldn’t be easy, he quit.
He has a right to be angry with Kyrie, but this is next-level soft. Playing with Durant should be enough to win a title if he’s as good as he thinks he is.
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) February 4, 2022
As of now, no trade has been finalized for Harden, and Nets fans will hope that remains the case moving forward. Apart from fans, NBA analyst Adrian Wojnarowski reported that even Durant wants Harden to stay.
At the end of the day, it is Beard’s decision. Whether he wants to continue with this superteam or not will definitely be unveiled in the coming days.
