Uduka refused Harden to return to the Rockets again, and would rather ask for Van Jordan, who is cheaper than the price, and still pick on defense

According to the latest report by Reed Lehmans, Rockets head coach Uduka said in an interview that he still wants to keep VanVleet in the offseason. When the reporter asked whether he was considering signing back to Harden in the offseason, Uduka made it clear that he had no interest in signing back to Harden. Uduka hopes that Van Vleet can renew the contract with the Rockets for many years, maintain the stability of the current lineup, and then strengthen and introduce other stars. The Rockets did not see much criticism after losing to the Warriors in tiebreak this season, because the team, with an average age of only 24, has done a very good job. But the problem that the Rockets have not solved this season is offense. Although VanVleet broke out in the last few games of the playoffs, the entire regular season was very sluggish. Therefore, many people hope that the Rockets can find a player who can develop firepower for young players, so they remembered Harden.

players such as Capela, Maxi, Clarkston who have worked with Harden have the ability to improve their teammates. Rockets core guard Jaylen Green also needs such a mentor, and Harden is also a good choice. But Uduka refused Harden's return. He said: "I want VanVleet to return to the team, and I welcome VanVleet back to the locker room. I think the Rockets and VanVleet both want to stay here, which is each other's hope."

Uduka still believes that Harden's defensive issues are not suitable for the Rockets, so he would rather choose VanVleet, which is cheaper than let Harden return to the Rockets. However, the Clippers don’t want to give up on Harden, because this season it’s Harden who takes the team back to the playoffs. Although the Clippers failed to win the championship, the Clippers management still wanted to keep the combination of Harden and Xiao Ka and make another move to the playoffs.