Reason why Rockets HC snubbed James Harden revealed

The Houston Rockets rejected the chance to reunite with James Harden this summer. The former MVP has requested a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers. However, there appears to be little interest from teams around the NBA. 

When speaking to ESPN's Zach Lowe, Rockets head coach Ime Udoka revealed why he opted against bringing Harden back to Houston.

"Nothing against James," Udoka told ESPN, "but Fred is just a better fit. I coached James in Brooklyn. He's one of the smartest players I've ever been around. The words 'Ime doesn't want James' never came out of my mouth. It was, 'Let's look at the best fit.' If we want Jalen and the young guys to take the next steps, we need them to have the ball. As for me saying I don't want James, that was never the case. It was about fit."

Houston has been rebuilding in recent years. Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Sengun are the three crown jewels on the Rockets' roster. Udoka added a veteran presence in Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks this summer. 

Harden's ball-dominant style of play wouldn't have been conducive to developing the younger talents. Bringing back a franchise legend hardly ever goes to plan. Instead, Udoka has prioritized internal development. Green and Sengun have the talent to become All-Star-level players. They are on the rise. Harden, 34, is entering the final stages of his career.