Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta made an appearance on CNBC's “Power Lunch” on Tuesday, and he took the high road when asked about the ongoing dispute with superstar James Harden.

Fertitta was asked by host Tyler Mathisen whether Harden was “disgruntled” with the Rockets and if he still wanted to be in Houston. Fertitta largely deflected the question, pointing out that Harden has reported to the team while expressing his respect for Harden's championship drive.

“James Harden, I have all the respect in the world for,” Fertitta said, via Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News. “And James Harden wants to win a ring during his period as a basketball player. I think that’s wonderful that he’s going to do that and hopefully he’ll do it with the Houston Rockets.”

Fertitta noted that Harden has undergone COVID-19 testing at the Toyota Center after spending the last few days partying indoors on both coasts without a mask.

The 2018 MVP has asked to be traded and failed to show up for the start of Rockets camp, which understandably irked Rockets brass and first time head coach, Stephen Silas.

Fertitta said he believes the Rockets improved their roster during the recent off-season, and expects a “great season.”

Since the second-round playoff exit in the bubble, Houston has undergone a major renovation. Former general manger Daryl Morey and head coach Mike D'Antoni have moved onto other franchises, while Russell Westbrook was shipped to the Washington Wizards for John Wall.

Houston hired Silas and promoted Rafael Stone to GM in October.

After initially requesting a trade to the Brooklyn Nets, Harden has broadened his list of preferred destinations.