The Houston Rockets are winning in ways that suggest something bigger is possible, but losing just enough to raise uncomfortable questions. Close finishes, overtime struggles, and a sudden hole at point guard have created tension beneath an otherwise impressive record. As the trade deadline approaches, one familiar name is beginning to hover over Houston again.
Late Game Failures and a Missing Playmaker Push Houston Rockets Toward a Bold Reunion
Trade speculation around James Harden gained traction after reporting from TheSteinLine, which noted that at least one veteran executive believes Harden could enter trade play between now and the February 5 deadline. The idea arrives at a time when the Rockets are struggling in close games, despite producing elite numbers on both ends of the floor.
The Rockets’ recent overtime loss to the Sacramento Kings underscored a growing pattern. They have dropped four of their past six games and sit 1–4 in overtime this season. All nine losses have come by a combined 49 points, including four defeats by three points or fewer. Those margins matter for a team built to contend now, especially after acquiring Kevin Durant in the offseason.
A key issue is structural. With Fred VanVleet sidelined by a season-ending knee injury, the Rockets lack a natural point guard to organize late possessions. Former NBA champion Jeff Teague believes the answer is a bold one.
Speaking on the “Club 520” podcast, Teague said, “They need to trade for James Harden,” adding that the Rockets should tell him, “you want him to play like he was in Brooklyn. Be the point guard.”
Jeff Teague says the Rockets need to trade for James Harden
“Tell James you want him to play like he was in Brooklyn. Be the point guard”
(Via @club520podcast) pic.twitter.com/KkPf0s0Upw
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) December 22, 2025
Teague’s argument centers on role clarity. Harden would not need to recreate his Houston scoring peak. Instead, the Brooklyn Nets’ version of Harden, focused on playmaking and control, could stabilize close games and elevate the surrounding roster.
Teague added that Harden remains productive and motivated, noting, “James is still playing at a high level right now, but I think he’d be motivated.”
The idea carries emotional and financial weight. Harden’s 2021 exit from the Rockets was contentious, yet his legacy as one of the franchise’s greatest players remains intact. Now with the Los Angeles Clippers sliding in the standings, Harden is once again chasing a first championship. A return to the Rockets would pair him with Durant, giving head coach Ime Udoka two former MVPs capable of steering a playoff-ready group.
According to Spotrac, Harden signed a two-year, $81.5 million contract with the Clippers, with $52.5 million guaranteed. He is set to earn $39,182,693 in 2025–26, a figure that shapes any serious trade discussion.
For the Rockets, the calculus is clear. They already defend at a top-10 level and rank in the top three offensively. What they lack is composure when games tighten. Harden would not be a nostalgic move. It would be a calculated bet that familiarity, playmaking, and urgency could turn narrow losses into meaningful postseason wins.
