Harden Explains ‘Disrespectful’ Comments, Says He's 'Forever Indebted' To Rockets

James Harden got his wish to join the Brooklyn Nets, but it was not a decision that sat well with Houston Rockets fans. It was all sparked by his comments following a blowout loss to the Los Angeles Lakers which most branded as disrespectful.

Harden had to live with that before the trade to the Nets was officially made. Addressing the comments, “The Beard” said that his words were not meant to disrespect the organization, ESPN reported.

"I have been through all the ups and downs, you know, with that organization. And I wasn't disrespectful toward anyone. I just made a comment that the team as a whole wasn't good enough to compete for a title. And at this stage in my career, where I am now, that's what I would love,” Harden said.

He went on to say that his actions were uncharacteristic of him. Harden added that he regrets making those statements and that he is not the kind of person who needs attention. But it appears it all stemmed from the fact that he was a competitor.

"I regret it because I'm not the type of guy to -- I don't need the attention," Harden said. "The ultimate goal was to get to somewhere where I can compete, and here I am in Brooklyn."

Like most players who leave an NBA franchise after playing there for quite some time, Harden penned his farewell to the Rockets in an Instagram post.

"Before the scoring titles, long before MVP, you believed. For that I am forever indebted. The city opened its arms and welcomed me and my family as one of its own and for that I am forever indebted," part of his message read.

Even with remorse written all over, it may take some time before his decision to leave the Rockets will heal as Houston fans are still angry. A business owner even recently offered a free car wash in exchange for useless James Harden jerseys. He claimed he plans to burn them all when Harden returns to Houston in a Brooklyn Nets uniform, something that could happen in March.

For now, Harden is moving forward. He is aware that he will have to take on different roles alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving—assuming he returns soon. With lots of scoring options, Harden admitted that he will have to lean on his playmaking abilities to co-exist alongside the two All-Stars.

Harden also touched on the claim that the Nets are now NBA title contenders. He said he feels they have a good chance but is aware that it will not be easy. His arrival gives Brooklyn better odds but does not guarantee a title immediately.