Fansided

James Harden lands on the cover of Sports Illustrated

By Chance Collins

Feb 27, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 27, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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James Harden landed himself on the upcoming cover of Sports Illustrated and one thing is for certain, the leader of the Houston Rockets is focused.

One of the favorites in the MVP race, along with former teammate Russell Westbrook, is arguably the best player in the NBA right now. He’s also on the cover of the latest issue of the Sports Illustrated.

Harden’s focus this season might be attributed to a new coach, a new position, the Howard-less Rockets, but when speaking with SI, the eight-year veteran talks about simplification. The Rockets are in a favorable position to contend against the Golden State Warriors and a chance for Harden to lead a team of his own to the NBA Finals. “I’m not worried about anything but hooping . . . and that may be why I’m having this kind of success,” Harden told SI.

The drama on the court was evident between Dwight Howard and James Harden a year ago – it was inescapable. Reported by SI, players also felt the rift in the locker room. “When you come here… you have to pick your side, ” said a player who joined the Rockets midseason when counseled by another veteran on the divide.

Flash forward a year later and Harden is atop the league in major statistical categories. Making a viable argument for MVP and the NBA’s Most Improved Player, Harden is averaging 28.8 point, 11.3 assists, and 8.1 rebounds per game. Houston is the third best team in the Western Conference, which is a complete turnaround from the No. 8 spot in 2015-16 and not far off from the high-octane Golden State Warriors.

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James Harden is pretty good, in fact – he’s really good. Without being a defensive force, like most of the greats we turn to, Harden has all the tools necessary to win an NBA Championship. It’s nice to see the simplification that Harden alluded to, it’s been an obvious catalyst for the change in his life – helping him reach his true potential. Bypassing injuries, James Harden could be an MVP and champion in this league for years to come.

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