One of the most lethal backcourts in the NBA might be ready for a break-up two seasons into their marriage.
According to Yahoo Sports' Vincent Goodwill, Chris Paul and James Harden's relationship has become "unsalvageable".
The report states that the two multiple time All-Stars went nearly two months without speaking during the season and Harden even went to Rockets' management and demanded a trade citing "him or me".
“There’s no respect at all, on either side,” a source told Yahoo Sports. “They need to get away from one another.
"Chris doesn’t respect James’ standing in the league, and James doesn’t respect the work Chris has put in to this point.”
Paul just completed the first year of a four-year $160 million dollar contract which does have a player option for the 2021-22 season — the final year of the deal.
Harden, 29, is under contract with the Rockets until 2023, when he has a player option.
It would be hard to imagine a situation where the Rockets would decide to part ways with Harden if they had to choose between the two. He led the league in scoring, averaging 36.1 points, 7.5 assists, 6.6 rebounds on 44% shooting from the field in 78 games.
Paul struggled with injuries playing just 58 games averaging 15.6 points, 8.2 assists and 2.0 steals.
Would the market open up for Paul? One can only wonder as the NBA heads into what is expected to be a thrilling off-season.
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