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Houston Rockets: 5 reasons Chris Paul and James Harden won’t work together

By Evan Massey

April 10, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) moves the ball ahead of Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
April 10, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) moves the ball ahead of Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 24, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) in action against the San Antonio Spurs during the third quarter at Staples Center. The San Antonio Spurs won 105-97. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 24, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) in action against the San Antonio Spurs during the third quarter at Staples Center. The San Antonio Spurs won 105-97. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Chris Paul doesn’t play without the basketball

Just like moving Harden off the point guard position could be a problem, asking Paul to allow Harden to play with the ball in his hands could be an issue. Paul is used to dominating the ball a the primary point guard, but that won’t be the case in Houston all the time.

CP3 will have to get used to playing away from the ball and getting open looks by moving without the basketball.

Taking a backseat to Harden won’t be an easy change for him to make. Paul is known for his ability to create his own shot, just like Harden. That could cause both players to struggle scoring the ball.

While Paul could have some issues not being a ball-dominant point guard, he is a superstar for a reason. If he can adjust his game to fit alongside Harden, the Rockets are going to have one of the top backcourt duos in the league.

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