James Harden Trade
If you did not know, last night the Oklahoma Thunder traded James Harden (and his beard) to the Houston Rockets in a multi-player deal. The deal included Harden, Cole Aldrich, Lazar Hayward, and Daequan Cook being sent to Houston and in return the Thunder received SG Kevin Martin, 10th overall pick Jeremy Lamb, 2 first round draft picks and a 2nd rounder. People might question why trade the 6th man of the year but ultimately this was an excellent trade for the Thunder.
The Thunder are the winners of this trade for multiple reasons. After this season both Harden's and Ibaka's contracts were up. It was already known that the chances that the Thunder could keep both players and also plan on signing Durant and Westbrook in a few years was very doubtful. Getting rid of Harden saved a lot of money because of Harden's wants. James Harden was going to ask for a maximum contract while Ibaka would be looking for high numbers as well. The Thunder will have rookie Jeremy Lamb on a rookie contract for a few years and can negotiate with Martin after the season. Not to mention, the Thunder are receiving two first round draft picks which if used wisely could build on this dynasty.
The Rockets in this trade were absolutely not losers. They gained a superstar along with very good role players. They did give up potential draft picks but if the Rockets plan on being good those picks won't be in the lottery anyways. Cole Aldrich plays well inside and Daequan Cook is a career 35% 3pt shooter. Not only did the Rockets gain a superstar but that superstar is going to help with the development of newly acquired PG Jeremy Lin. Harden will take most of the attention away from Lin making him more effective.
Both teams were winners in this trade but I believe the Thunder got a better deal. It will be interesting to see if James Harden is going to come off the bench or become a starter. Finally, we will see if the Thunder are going to be as good and if the Rockets will be improved.
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