Harden's performance on the court has never been a mystery. In the last two games, he has single-handedly carried the burden of victory for the Clippers, scoring 28 and 33 points to prove that he is still the thigh on the court. Then again, the Rockets seem to have missed something during this time.
I remember when Udoka joined the Rockets, it was with a momentum to change the world. Fertitta has offered a massive four-year, $28.5 million contract, clearly trying to build a team with a tough team culture. But who would have thought that the selfishness hidden behind this would make Harden's Rockets feelings go down the drain.
Udoka, the former Green coach who had a highlight on the stage of the Finals. He joined the Rockets not in search of a team that could make a playoff round, but to lead the team back to glory. However, his choice cost the Rockets the heavyweight Harden. Udoka has joked that if he takes over the Bucks or the 76ers, he will definitely lead the team to the playoffs. But the reality is that he's in the Rockets, and Harden isn't there.
What Udoka needs is an obedient team, both as an assistant coach and as a player. He rejected Harden's return and chose Van Jordan and Dillon, two suitable "mercenaries." Harden has a good relationship with Rockets general manager Stone, and they even had the opportunity to bring Harden back and bounce back. However, Udoka's arrival changed everything.
Harden's performance with the Clippers proved his worth. Compared to Van Jordan, Harden can lead the team far. He was particularly impressive in the playoffs, something Fertitta might regret when he saw it. Udoka's selfishness seems to have hindered the growth of a talented young player, Jalen Green. Harden could have been his mentor and friend, but because of Udoka's strategic choice, this mentorship did not work.
Not only that, but Harden's departure also has a big impact on Maxey of the 76ers. Maxey has publicly expressed his gratitude to Harden, believing that Harden is a key figure in helping him grow. Part of the credit for Maxey's progress should be attributed to Harden. This shows that Harden is not only a great player, but also a great mentor.
Harden's astonishing performance in the playoffs and his ability to lead the team make one wonder what would have happened if he had been with the Rockets? Udoka's strategic choice obviously had its considerations, but did he also let go of the Rockets' rapid rise while letting go of Harden?
Now the question is, what can we learn from Udoka's decision? And perhaps more importantly, what can other teams learn from this lesson from the Rockets? Fans, what do you think Harden would have done if he had stayed with the Rockets? Let's talk about that.