James Harden Rumored To Be Interested in Returning to the Houston Rockets

Chatter surrounding James Harden's future in the NBA has ignited rumors that The Beard is considering a return to the Houston Rockets.

According to Yahoo Sports, his interest dates back to a time long before he requested a trade out of Brooklyn. When the Nets franchise first heard of Harden potentially wanting out, he had already indicated an interest in rejoining the Rockets. While he later went with the Philadelphia 76ers, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski recently learned that Harden is seriously considering a return to the Rockets in free agency in July if the Sixers do not renew his deal.

Houston is a major contender for Harden, who is currently on a two-year $68.6 million USD contract with the Sixers, including a player option for 2023-24 season that allows him to reenter free agency in the summer. The Sixers' present record is 19-12, fifth in the East. Should Harden choose to return to Houston, he would be playing amongst up-and-coming young greats including Jalen Green, Jabari Smith and Kevin Porter Jr. Harden has yet to make an announcement and NBA fans might just have to sit tight until the deadline for free agency is at a closer date.

In other NBA news, Dirk Nowitzki's statue has been unveiled.