James Harden Comments on the Rockets Cornerstones

The Houston Rockets' James Harden is in the Phillipienes and was asked about the Rockets current state.  Harden said, “Dwight and I are the cornerstones of the Rockets, the rest of the guys are role players or pieces that complete our team. We’ve lost some pieces and added some pieces. I think we’ll be fine next season” (Via NBC Sports).  

What was Harden thinking?  Yes, it may be true he and Dwight Howard are the cornerstones of the Rockets team.  But is calling everyone else apart of the Rockets "role players" a good idea?  Harden really needs to think about what he said. 

I don't see this Rockets team going to far in the western conference this year.  The Rockets lost Chandler Parsons, Jeremy Lin, and Omer Asik this offseason.  To replace them they got Nick Johnson, Ish Smith, Trevor Ariza, and Alonzo Gee.  But the Rockets lost talent while most of the Western Conference gained talent.  Behind Patrick Beverly the backup spot is up for grabs.  Behind Harden there is really no one.  And Behind Howard and Terrence Jones there is really no one again. This team is going to struggle.  Last season they exited the playoffs in the first round against Portland and they probably won't get much further this year if they even make the playoffs. 

Right now the Rockets should be looking into signing either Eric Bledsoe or Greg Monroe.  Both are restricted free agents so the Suns and Pistons could both match an offer from Houston.  But they need another piece to compete in the Western Conference.

Harden's comments uncover problems in Houston's foundation.  They only have two main pieces and then a drastic fall off.  Houston lost out on Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh this offseason.  The cornerstones of the team need to work with the rest of the "role players" to form some team chemistry.  Let's see if this Rockets team really will "be fine next season".