Thunderous Intentions
Fansided

OKC Thunder Starting 5 mailbag – Musical Reddit edition

By Rylan Stiles

OAKLAND, CA - FEBRUARY 06: Head coach Billy Donovan of the Oklahoma City Thunder reacts to the play on the court during the second half of their NBA basketball game against the Golden State Warriors at ORACLE Arena on February 6, 2018 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA - FEBRUARY 06: Head coach Billy Donovan of the Oklahoma City Thunder reacts to the play on the court during the second half of their NBA basketball game against the Golden State Warriors at ORACLE Arena on February 6, 2018 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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OKC Thunder
DENVER, CO – FEBRUARY 25: Chris Paul /

Question 3:

From Reddit User Lauralately: “What do you think of OKC fans who hate Harden? Where do you think this hatred stems from? (for the record, I love Harden/Rockets & am genuinely curious) Are you rooting for the Rockets in the playoffs?”

Chef Harden food poisoning?

 I do not hate James Harden. I do not think any Thunder fan should hate James Harden.

That said, it seems the  hatred comes not from anything Harden himself has done, but rather Rocket fans–and the national media. Both use James Harden to discredit Russell Westbrook and the OKC Thunder organization, instead of just appreciating both players greatness for what they are.

Play Style:

Another form of hatred for Harden comes from his style of play. It is very frustrating to watch, especially if he is facing your favorite team. At times, he looks to be bailed out by the officials, rather than trying to get open and take quality shots.

As for the Western Conference Finals, it’s a pick-your-poison situation.

The aforementioned Rockets fans would be ruthless if Harden, and the Rockets won a title before Westbrook, and the Thunder. In the same light, most Thunder fans do not want to watch Kevin Durant win another title in Golden State.

If I had to pick someone to root for, it would be the Rockets. I appreciate James Harden, and Chris Paul for all they have done for Oklahoma City. Both players have spoken highly of the city, the organization, and the fans since their departures. (CP3 played in Oklahoma City for 2 seasons as a member of the OKC Hornets)

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