Houston Rockets star guards James Harden and Russell Westbrook are concerned about the team’s direction following a start to an offseason that is full of change, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski and Tim MacMahon.
The Rockets have parted ways with general manager Daryl Morey, who took a job as the president of basketball operations with the Philadelphia 76ers, and head coach Mike D’Antoni, who is now a member of Steve Nash’s coaching staff with the Brooklyn Nets.
Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta, recently promoted general manager Rafael Stone to take over for Morey, and hired Stephen Silas as their new head coach.
Harden, 31, has been an All-Star in all eight seasons he has played in Houston, while Westbrook, 31, just wrapped up his first season with the team.
Harden is owed $131.5 million over the three seasons remaining on his maximum contract, including a $46.9 million player option in 2022-23. Westbrook is owed $131.5 million over the next three seasons and has a $46.7 million player option in 2022-23.
The Rockets have involved both former MVPs in their coaching search and other decisions, and the organization has maintained their commitment to chasing an NBA championship despite that window seeming to be closing quickly.