Houston Rockets security guard James Harden spoke candidly with reporters after the loss of Rockets 117-100 at home to the Los Angeles Lakers Tuesday night.
Harden, who finished with 16 points, seven rebounds and six assists, said the Rockets just aren’t good enough.
“I love this town,” said Harden. “I’ve literally done everything I can. I mean this situation is insane. It’s something I don’t think can be resolved.”
In Tuesday’s loss, Harden played in his fourth game in which he scored 20 points or less. This is Harden’s longest hiatus since the 2011-12 season, when he played with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Harden is aware that the Rockets will continue to discuss trading scenarios with teams, although no deal is imminent. Houston’s asking price remains high for transactions involving Harden.
Newly acquired Rockets guard John Wall, who finished with 10 points and five assists in the game, said chemistry plays a role in the Rockets’ early season.
“When you have certain guys who don’t want to buy in, it’s hard,” said Wall.
While the Rockets’ chemistry troubles were a problem, Wall didn’t hesitate to establish a relationship with Harden.
“It’s been a bit rocky, I won’t lie about that,” Wall said. ‘I don’t think it’s the best it can be. That’s all I can say. ‘
Harden scores an average of 26 points (10th in the competition) in 37 minutes of action. He also leads the league in average assists per game with 11.
Houston (3-6) is one place away from last place in the NBA Western Conference. The Rockets are also 3-3 at home and have dropped two consecutive games.
The Rockets will be back on the road on Thursday against the San Antonio Spurs, a team that won 112-102 on Tuesday against the Oklahoma City Thunder.