King James ??

Is James Harden the best shooting guard in the NBA today?

Thus far this season James has been a menace to opposing guards around the league.  His 27.4 points, 6.1 rebounds and 6.9 assist per game are all career highs.  James has developed into the Houston Rockets main option.  Two years ago James was a reserve for the Oklahoma City Thunder.  He has gone from sixth man to MVP candidate seemingly overnight.

Team success is important in this league.  Houston lost a disappointing first - round series to the Portland Trailblazers one year ago.  If James wants to be mentioned with players such as LeBron James or Kevin Durant, the Rockets will need to come up with a better performance come postseason.  Houston is 21-9 through 30 games.  The Front office has added depth and much needed toughness with the addition of Corey Brewer.  Trevor Ariza brings championship experience to the Rockets lineup.  James and Dwight Howard could have the weapons around them to get the Rockets back to the NBA Finals.

James still must improve in certain areas.  His effort on defense has improved, however, he still has to prove he can contain the other teams best player.

At times shot selection is still an issue for the two-time NBA All-Star.  James can create his own shot at any given time.  The problem is James has never seen a shot he didn't like.  He must keep his teammates involved.  Winning an NBA Championship is a team effort.  All great guards must learn to put smaller guards in the post.  James is 6'5" tall.  Posting up could take his game to a new level.

James has been nothing short of spectacular since joining the Rockets.  In Oklahoma City Harden played in the shadows of Durant and Russell Westbrook.  Houston gives James the opportunity to be the star he was destined to become.

If James maintains this fast start he'ill certainly be apart of the MVP conversation at the conclusion of the season.  Houston's success going forward will also factor into his chances of becoming the first Rocket to win the award since Hakeem Olajuwon in 1994. That year the Rockets won their first of back-to-back NBA Championships.