James Harden frustrated with Nets for 1 key reason?

As James Harden trade rumors have intensified in recent days, speculation has grown suggesting that the guard may not be happy in Brooklyn. A new report on Saturday may have done a bit to reveal why.

Harden is generally frustrated with his Nets tenure, according to Alex Schiffer of The Athletic, and his role is a key reason. When Brooklyn acquired Harden from Houston, the guard was eager to be part of a “three-headed monster” with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Instead, he has been asked to play a similar alpha role as he did with the Rockets due in part to Durant’s injuries and Irving’s status as a part-time player.

Harden was so dominant in Houston at times that it may be a surprise that he doesn’t relish the role in Brooklyn. The guard certainly seemed to grow frustrated at having to do so much, however. He was actually at his best for Brooklyn playing off Irving and Durant, and his assists jumped to 10.9 per game after being traded to the Nets last year.

There are reports indicating there may be other reasons Harden isn’t enamored with Brooklyn right now. These murmurs are not going away and will only fuel speculation that a trade is actually possible.

Photo: Feb 16, 2021; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard James Harden (13) reacts against the Phoenix Suns at Phoenix Suns Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports