I’ve heard a lot of people say the end of James Harden’s tenure in Houston disqualifies him from being the NBA MVP. But I’d argue the way the Rockets have played without him actually helps his case.
Before their win over the Raptors, Houston had lost 20 straight! Of course, it would be irresponsible not to point out that this year’s Rockets team lost a lot more than just Harden, including the coach, general manager and Russell Westbrook. But the fact remains...they were the only franchise in the league not to miss the playoffs during his time there, regardless of what other pieces were around him.