LeBron James Accused of Influencing James Harden to Leave Thunders: ‘Kevin Durant Said, We’re About to Lose James’
It's important to note that Dwyane Wade was not a member of the Olympic team that year, notwithstanding Perkins' account. This disparity raises the possibility that Perkins misunderstood some information or was alluding to Wade's impact in a different context. However, the more general theory that Harden was much inspired by his colleagues to seek a larger role is persuasive.
After deciding to join the Houston Rockets, Harden was able to take on a more prominent position that showcased his enormous talent. The Thunder received multiple draft picks, Jeremy Lamb, and Kevin Martin in exchange for their troubles. Martin and Lamb did not have much of an impact, but OKC gained a notable contributor in Steven Adams, one of the draft picks.
Harden had an incredible game while playing for the Rockets. He became one of the league's best players, won the NBA MVP award, and won several scoring titles. In stark contrast to his role as a sixth player with the Thunder, Harden's career underwent a revolutionary phase that began with the trade.
Harden's departure was partly influenced by financial factors. The Rockets offered a more lucrative five-year contract for $78.8 million, but the Thunder were only willing to offer him a four-year deal worth $55.5 million. Because of this difference, Harden found leaving to be a more financially appealing option.
It's interesting to think about how the Thunder may have performed if Harden, Durant, and Russell Westbrook had been together for a longer amount of time. Though they lost to LeBron and the Miami Heat in the 2012 NBA Finals, the three had a lot of promise for success. Harden's career took off in Houston, and fans are left to speculate about what would have happened if he had stayed with the Thunder. The Rockets gained what had been lost by the Thunder.
Also Read: LeBron James and Stephen Curry Need to Team Up Suggests Laker Player After Paris Olympics Gold Medal Win
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