Parsons takes offense to Harden’s recent comments…
Dallas Mavericks star Chandler Parsons has responded to former team-mate James Harden’s suggestion that he was merely a role player at the Houston Rockets.
Parsons signed a three-year deal worth $46m with Dallas as a restricted free agent this summer after the Rockets failed to match their offer as they continued their pursuit of the likes of Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh.
While Houston failed to acquire either of those two stars, they have been left with a void to fill, although judging from Harden’s recent comments, he believes that they will be fine next season.
“Dwight [Howard] and I are the cornerstones of the Rockets,” Harden said while appearing at a charity event in the Philippines, according to The Philippine Star.
“The rest of the guys are role players or pieces that complete our team. We’ve lost some pieces and added some pieces”
Having heard the quote, Parsons spoke to during an appearance on the “Jay Mohr Sports” show on Fox Sports Radio and he reacted to what Harden reportedly said.
“That’s a pretty ridiculous statement if he meant that,” Parsons said. “That’s part of the reason I wanted to go to Dallas, because I’m ready for that next step. I’m ready for a bigger role, and I’m ready for more leadership.
“If anybody should understand that, it’s James, because he was in the same situation in Oklahoma City and then he got his chance to come to Houston and shine. I’m not real sure what that means.”
Parsons has previously reacted to comments coming out of the Rockets camp, with general manager Daryl Morey insisting that the franchise was better off not exercising the right to match Dallas’ offer because it would have prevented them from having the flexibility to add a big star alongside Harden and Howard.
The 25-year-old will have significant bulletin board material next season, and after averaging 16.6 points, 5.5. rebounds and 4.0 assists per game last year, he will be hoping to respond to the additional pressure and responsibility that will come with his decision to switch teams.
Meanwhile, Houston appear to have to now settle with the roster that they have and it remains to be seen whether or not it will be enough for them to challenge in a competitive Western Conference.
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