Oklahoma City Thunder: Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook’s Ranking In Dynamic Duos

Dec 13, 2015; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) and Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) react after a play against the Utah Jazz during the fourth quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2015; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) and Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) react after a play against the Utah Jazz during the fourth quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 14, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard (12) and guard James Harden (13) talk against the Orlando Magic during the second quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 14, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard (12) and guard James Harden (13) talk against the Orlando Magic during the second quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

5. James Harden and Dwight Howard, Houston Rockets

This is the only duo on this list not guaranteed to make it the rest of the season playing for the same team. Rumors are swirling that Howard is unhappy with his role in Houston and that he wants out, which is bringing up trade discussions in the media and likely in the front office as well.

Although the Houston Rockets are drastically underperforming this year, Harden and Howard should still be a powerful force.

Harden is an elite playmaker on the offensive end that excels running the pick and roll, something Howard was made to do. While Dwight has always wanted to get the ball on the block and go to work, but he has never developed the back-to-the-basket game necessary to become that player.

At this stage in his career, he plays best rolling to the rim and finishing off lobs. Howard’s capability at the defensive end also makes up for Harden’s apparent disinterest on defense and covers up a lot of mistakes made. If both of these players are able to perform to their potential, the Rockets would jump back into championship contention in no time.

Next: Change of the Guard in L.A.