NBA: Player Rankings – Week 9
12. James Harden (SG, Houston Rockets)
Dec 28, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets shooting guard James Harden (13) controls the ball during the third quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Despite having a solid year in Houston with the addition of Dwight Howard, Harden has slightly digressed during the 2013-14 campaign. He is averaging 2.5 points lower than his 2012-13 average. His steals, rebounds and assists total are also all below his averages from last year. While the drops are no where near significant, it is affecting Houston as they have put up an not-so-impressive 21-12 record. While they have had some great wins, they have struggled against the league’s elite, most recently a gentle thrashing by the San Antonio Spurs. Harden is one of the most dynamic scorers in the league who can get to the basket any time he wants, but in order for the Rockets to truly have a chance in the playoffs, he needs to step it up a bit.