Jan 28, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) dribbles the ball during the second quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Houston Rockets
First Half Highlight: Signing Josh Smith
Record: 34-15
Analysis: After much criticism following last year’s playoff loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, James Harden has taken upon himself to shut up his — and the team’s — haters.
Harden has transformed himself into a legitimate NBA MVP candidate while also making his Houston Rockets one of the most dangerous teams — if nothing else, on offense — in the Western Conference.
Even with Dwight Howard in and out of the Rockets’ lineup lately, Harden has helped Houston fans forget that they’re currently playing without a perennial all-star and perhaps the best defensive center in the NBA.
Houston has been what they were last season — a great regular season team. Although, the wildcard for this team will definitely be Harden taking that proverbial next step. We’ll truly see if that is so during the playoffs.
Grade: B+
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