The Houston Rockets have not won a title since Hakeem Olajuwon led them since 1995. Since then, many great players have played for the team, but have been unsuccessful. One of them is two-time scoring champion, Tracy McGrady. TMac played for the Rockets for six years but never won a title. However, he believes superstar James Harden can end this 25-year franchise drought.
McGrady made an appearance on ESPN’s The Jump and talked about the Rockets’ chances of getting a title. It was quite a compliment to Harden and he said: “We are talking about a boy who loves to play basketball every night. James Harden will have the chance of a lifetime to win a championship, more than ever. Taking four months off, dropping 20 pounds, what more do you want? It’s going to be cooler than ever. “
Can James Harden take the Houston Rockets to a title?
McGrady says the Rockets’ hopes rest on Harden and Russell Westbrook.
“They have two guys that you can put anywhere on earth, (even) on Mars, that can get out of bed and play basketball. These guys are in good faith, pure hoopers. Superstars need fans; They need that energy to come from the fans. Westbrook and Harden don’t need that. If they can stay healthy, the Rockets will be a very dangerous team, especially if this man (Harden) has four months off. “
Harden is an elite scorer and is on his way to a third consecutive scoring title. However, his scoring index has always dropped during the playoffs. Those numbers are still respectable, however his FG has also dropped. Westbrook has also struggled in the playoffs. His FG% has not even reached 40% in the last three seasons.
If this two ex-MVP backcourt can get to its best, it will be a terrifying sight for any team. Harden is not only one of the best scorers in the league, but he is also one of the best players. Westbrook also offers similar games and can also get crucial rebounds. Coach Mike D’Antoni will trust his small ball plan to work in Orlando and hope that his superstars can deliver when it matters.
