Brooklyn Nets superstar guard James Harden was asked by a reporter, “How would you describe your conditioning level now at this point in the season?” The Beard had a laconic reply, “Great.” This question came about as Harden looked heavier than usual during this season.

It's good to see that Harden has his sense of humor back. Now, it's just a matter of time, before he has his chiseled, MVP-caliber physique back too.

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In Harden's few games this season in a Houston Rockets uniform, he seemed pedestrian, especially in the last three games, where he went 6-of-23 from 3-point land. Most likely, he will turn the switch on upon his debut with the Nets. Playing in Brooklyn will be a reunion of sorts, as he will play with former Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Kevin Durant. Nets assistant coach Mike D'Antoni coached Harden in his Rockets tenure. One need only to look at Harden's debut this season to remember what he is capable of. Against the Portland Trail Blazers, Harden dropped 44 points and 17 assists.

The Beard is one of the most durable stars around and plays games continually without load management. Furthermore, he has proved to be very adaptable. In his Thunder days, he came off the bench and even won the Sixth Man of the Year Award. When he got traded to the Rockets, he embraced being the focal point of the offense, transitioning from a point guard to a shooting guard. He changed his game to be the epitome of analytics when asked to do so, disregarding the mid-range jumper for layups and threes. For sure, he will be able to adapt and excel in Brooklyn.