Fansided

Rockets GM Shares 10-Minute Clip Of James Harden Playing Good Defense (Video)

By Sam Richmond

Dec 5, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) looks on during the first half against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 5, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) looks on during the first half against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

James Harden’s defensive reputation might change after a 10-minute clip shared by Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey.

Houston Rockets shooting guard James Harden has caught a lot of heat in the past year for his effort on defense

More from Houston Rockets

That criticism was primarily started after a number of lengthy YouTube videos were created that outlined Harden’s defensive struggles.

However, following a summer of hearing such criticism over and over again, Harden has come out and played much better defense this season. After posting a defensive rating (estimated amount of points allowed per 100 possessions) of 107 last season, Harden is posting a 98 defensive rating this season, according to Basketball Reference.

Naturally, Harden’s improved defense has resulted in a lengthy video proclaiming him “the hardest defender” being created. Rockets general manger Daryl Morey shared the video with the world on Monday.

Harden is certainly performing better defensively this year and he deserves credit for that. However, as many, including Grantland’s Zach Lowe, have hinted at, let’s not start proclaiming Harden an excellent defender.

Regardless, the Rockets have to be pleased by his progress.

Thanks in large part to Harden’s offensive and defensive contributions, the Rockets are 16-4 this season.

More from FanSided

Home/Houston Rockets