James Harden says ‘crazy’ Rockets situation can’t be fixed

James Harden publicly ackwledged his discord with Houston Rockets for first time Tuesday night following back-to-back blowout losses to Los Angeles Lakers.

“We're just t good eugh ... I love this city. I literally have done everything that I can,” Harden said. “I mean, this situation is crazy. It’s something that I don’t think can be fixed.”

Harden had remained quiet through months of speculation that he is unhappy in Houston. Numerous reports have indicated he’s looking to be shipped to Brooklyn to play with former Oklahoma City teammate Kevin Durant, who left and became an NBA champion with Golden State. For all his accomplishments, Harden is still seeking an NBA title.

He’s been asked repeatedly to address trade rumors since season began but has deflected questions and refused to reveal any frustration.

That all changed after a 117-100 blowout loss to Lakers on Tuesday night. Lakers led by 30 points in third quarter after leading by 27 during a 120-102 on Sunday.

Harden didn't elaborate or take any additional questions following his initial comments.

Harden’s words will surely be ticed by NBA officials, but it wouldn’t seem that what he said postgame would merit a trade demand — and subject him to a fine. league has a longstanding rule about players t being able to publicly express a desire to be traded and has issued $50,000 fines in recent years to players like Anthony Davis and Dewayne Dedmon for breaking that policy.

Harden was fined $50,000 earlier this season for conduct detrimental to league related to him t following health and safety protocols put into place by NBA and National Basketball Players Association for navigating a season during a coronavirus pandemic.

Harden won each of last three scoring titles by table margins — 2.3 points over Davis in 2017-18, 8.1 points over Paul George in 2018-19 and 3.8 points over Bradley Beal last season. His 24.8-point aver so far this season ranked 18th in NBA, still putting him among leaders but obviously well off his usual pace.

He’s averd at least 25 points per game in each of his eight full seasons with Rockets.

Rockets traded Russell Westbrook to Washington Wizards in exchange for John Wall and a future first-round draft pick before season in what was seen as an attempt to pacify Harden.

So far, pairing of two ball-dominant guards hasn't gone well. Rockets are 3-6 and looked completely overmatched in ir last two games against reigning champions.

Wall was asked how he and Harden have worked toger on court so far after Tuesday's game.

“It’s a little rocky," Wall said. “I don’t think it’s best it could be, that’s all I could say.”

(Im credit: AP)