The Oklahoma City Thunder were on the cusp of something special in the early 2010s. A young trio of James Harden, Kevin Durant, and Russell Westbrook ushered in the next generation of superstars in the NBA. But that dream unraveled faster than anyone could have imagined. Mere months after their 2012 NBA Finals appearance, Harden was traded to the Houston Rockets splitting the trio.
The decision stemmed from the Thunder’s unwillingness to offer James Harden a max contract. Oklahoma City reportedly balked at paying an additional $4 million in luxury tax penalties. It was a choice that ultimately derailed their championship aspirations. Speaking on the Earn Your Leisure podcast, Harden reflected on the missed opportunity.
It was only for $4 million, too. They broke it up for $4 million. My rookie year, we was the 8 seed, we played the Lakers. They was the number 1 seed. We scared them, for sure… They won the championship…
James Harden via Earn Your Leisure podcast
On the podcast, James Harden spoke about how the trio of Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and himself had already started inserting fear into oppositions right from his rookie season. He went on to explain their aspirations after dominating the Western Conference early.
My second year, we was in the Western Conference Finals against Dallas. They won the championship. My third year, we end up in the Finals against the Heat. That was Bron’s first championship. They won the championship. That summer, we go to the Olympics. We won the gold medal. My fourth year, it’s on.
James Harden via Earn Your Leisure podcast
James Harden Says OKC Broke Up the Big 3 Over Just $4 Million pic.twitter.com/xZy4Pd5J66
— Earn Your Leisure (@EarnYourLeisure) November 23, 2024
When he was asked about how many championships the Thunder could have had, Harden bluntly stated they were set to win at least two world titles. Unfortunately, following Harden’s trade, the Thunder never reached the NBA finals again. It ended the HOF trio’s reign without a ring to show for.
James Harden’s championship pursuit in Year 16
Now., in his 16th season, James Harden continues his quest for an elusive championship. With the Los Angeles Clippers, Harden has averaged 20.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game this season. He has helped the Clippers maintain a 10-7 record despite Kawhi Leonard’s absence due to injury.
Harden’s longevity is remarkable, as is his continued ability to produce at a high level. This season, he surpassed Ray Allen to become second all-time in made three-pointers, cementing his place among the game’s greats. However, at 35 years old, Harden knows time is running out.
The Clippers represent perhaps his final shot at glory. With a talented roster featuring Leonard, and a number of rising stars, the team has the pieces to contend. But health and chemistry remain question marks, especially in the ultra-competitive Western Conference. For all his accolades—MVP honors, scoring titles, and All-Star appearances—his resume remains incomplete without an elusive ring
