Chandler Parsons calls out James Harden and Dwight Howard after disparaging comments
By Sam Richmond
Dallas Mavericks forward Chandler Parsons did not exactly receive a fond farewell from his former Houston Rocket teammates.
Both James Harden and Dwight Howard have both made comments that would seem to diminish Parsons’ impact on last seasons’ Rockets team.
Howard to the Associated Press on July 18:
"“It won’t affect us at all,” Howard said Friday of Parsons signing a three-year, $45-million deal with the Dallas Mavericks.…"
"“We have myself and James (Harden),” Howard said. “We have the best center and the best two guard in the game on the same team. It’s on us.”"
Asked about Parsons leaving, Harden said the following to the Philippine Star on Thursday:
"“Dwight (Howard) and I are the cornerstones of the Rockets,” said Harden. “The rest of the guys are role players or pieces that complete our team. We’ve lost some pieces and added some pieces. I think we’ll be fine next season.”"
Now, Parsons has fired back with a pretty clear subtweet at Howard and Harden.
Think before you speak.
— Chandler Parsons (@ChandlerParsons) July 24, 2014
Parsons also commented specifically on Harden’s comments to Alex Kennedy of Basketball Insiders.
Parsons on Harden: "It's a pretty ridiculous statement, if he meant that. I'm excited to go to DAL. I'm ready for next step, a bigger role."
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) July 24, 2014
It’s absolutely understandable why Parsons would be bothered by his former teammates’ comments. Sure, Parsons isn’t as skilled as Harden or Howard, but he was instrumental to the Rockets’ success.
Parsons averaged 16.6 points (47.2 percent shooting from the field and 37.0 percent shooting from three), 5.5 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game last season with Houston.
The Rockets will very clearly miss Parsons, despite what its Big 2 are saying, so Parsons will likely get the last laugh here.