Philadelphia 76ers star James Harden has hit back at critics following increased speculation about his NBA future.
The 33-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season, and it's been rumoured that he could be plotting a return to the Houston Rockets. There's an option for Harden to trigger an extra year at the 76ers as he chases that elusive NBA title, but feeling within the franchise is that he wants to return 'home' to Houston.
Harden is without a doubt one of the best in the NBA, and remains one of the greatest to never win a Championship. But the 76ers star has snapped following scrutiny, as he feels criticism is unfair.
"I don’t know what they want from me. You know what I mean? I’ve been doing this thing for a very long time," Harden said. "I’ve been one of the most consistent players in this league since I’ve been in."
The 76ers are expected to be in the conversation for the NBA title come the end of this season, and there's a chance that Harden may finally go all the way for the first time in his career. But Harden has nothing to prove, as he's starred in the league ever since being drafted back in 2009.
Should the 76ers miss out again, Harden could trigger an extra year - which would undoubtedly be his best option if winning a title is his no.1 priority. However, according to The Athletic, some of his team-mates are convinced that he could be heading back to Houston, whether that be with or without that NBA crown.
Harden moved to the Rockets in 2012 and spent nine years in Houston. Harden clearly loves it there and holds the franchise very close to his heart still to this day.
The NBA star already has a stake in MLS side Houston Dynamo, and sees the area as a second home - after growing up in California. And the fact Harden hired a new agent has only fuelled speculation further.
The reports have been met with a mixed reaction, as although Rockets fans would be overjoyed with his return, neutral supporters have questioned his ambition. The Rockets are dead last in the NBA after a brutal season, but perhaps Harden cares more about helping the franchise than chasing personal goals.
