The Houston Rockets remain determined to keep star guard James Harden despite his trade request, according to Tim MacMahon of ESPN.
The Rockets did grant Russell Westbrook his own request Wednesday night, sending him to the Washington Wizards for point guard John Wall and a 2023 first-round pick. Per ESPN, Harden recently informed the Rockets that he prefers a trade to the Brooklyn Nets.
“Houston’s stance on Harden has not changed, a high-ranking Rockets source told ESPN, saying the team hoped to be competitive with the perennial MVP candidate on the roster this season and does not envision a scenario in which Harden would be traded before the opener,” ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported.
“The Rockets have let it be known that they would require a return that included a young, potential franchise cornerstone and a massive picks package in any potential deal for Harden, according to sources.”
The Golden State Warriors are one team that’s reached out to the Rockets about a potential Harden trade, per Shams Charania of The Athletic.
