On Thursday, the Brooklyn Nets announced they have secured the services of eight-time All-Star NBA player James Harden from the Houston Rockets via trade after the player’s relationship with the Western Conference team broke down this week.
Harden who was named the NBA’s MVP in 2018 said the Rockets were “just not good enough” and also admitted the situation could not be fixed this season seeing as they sit second-bottom in the Western Conference with a 3-6 record.
Nets general manager Sean Marks, in a statement said: “Adding an All-NBA player such as James to our roster better positions our team to compete against the league’s best,”
“James is one of the most prolific scorers and playmakers in our game, and we are thrilled to bring his special talents to Brooklyn.”
The trade deal also involved the Nets center Jarrett Allen and forward Taurean Prince moving to the Cavaliers while guard Caris LeVert and forward Rodions Kurucs join the Rockets.
Also, the US media reported that Caris LeVert is expected to be swapped for All-Star Victor Oladipo in an exchange deal.
The Nets, sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 7-6 record, also sent three first-round draft picks (2022, 2024 and 2026) and four first-round pick swaps (2021, 2023, 2025 and 2027) to Houston.
In a statement released by the Rockets, team owner Tillman Fertitta said: “On behalf of the entire Rockets organization and the City of Houston, I’d like to thank James Harden for an amazing eight-plus seasons in a Rockets uniform. James has provided us with so many great memories as we’ve watched him grow from Sixth Man of the Year to a perennial All-Star and MVP.
“My family and I also want to thank James for his many off the court contributions, including generous charitable donations and multiple annual community events. We wish James the best of luck and will always be grateful for the memories.”
Congratulations Harden