Prior to the 2017-18 NBA season, former Houston Rockets head coach Kevin McHale believes James Harden is not a leader while discussing the Chris Paul trade. After spending close to four seasons together, Harden called McHale a ‘clown' and has more to say about his leadership.
According to Victoria Nguyen of The Score, Harden says there are different types of leaders and he has done it through his work ethic:
“There's different types of leaders,” Harden said. “I've always been a leader with my work ethic, just becoming more comfortable communicating and being a vocal leader, and knowing the guys you're leading, knowing what's around you. Then, it's just going out of my way a lot more than I always had. It's one thing to show the person, but it's also going out there making sure the person feels they're loved, that they feel welcome at all times.”
When the Oklahoma City Thunder traded Harden to the Rockets prior to the 2012-13 season, he was just 23 years old. Along with Harden trying to establish himself as the team's first option, he also had the challenge of being the team's leader. While it will be a work in progress, head coach Mike D'Antoni has come to his superstar's defense.
For Harden and the Rockets, the focus should be on the upcoming season — not McHale's comments. While the Golden State Warriors are expected to win their third championship in four consecutive NBA Finals appearances, the Rockets pose the biggest threat with the arrival of Paul.
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