Harden's Rockets Reunion Officially Off the Table

The Houston Rockets garnered significant criticism during the past season for maintaining their existing roster. Many believed the team was a point guard away from contention. Following an injury to Fred VanVleet, Houston had opportunities to address this need, reportedly considering players like Jose Alvarado, Ayo Dosunmu, and Coby White, all of whom were traded elsewhere.

James Harden also explored a potential return to the Rockets, with his representatives inquiring about the team's interest prior to his trade to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Harden had previously shown interest in rejoining Houston. However, recent reports suggest this door is now closed.

Sources indicate the Cavaliers are confident about re-signing Harden to a multiyear contract, likely in the $30 million annual range, a decrease from his current $39.4 million salary this season. Harden is expected to opt out of his $42.3 million player option for next season, which has only $13.3 million guaranteed, to sign a new deal with Cleveland.

Harden and the Cavaliers reached the Eastern Conference Finals last season, their best performance since LeBron James' departure. The Rockets, meanwhile, largely relied on Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard to fill point guard duties, but may still need to add depth at the position.