NBA Rumors: James Harden May Have Purposely Showed Up Out Of Shape

James Harden returned to NBA action, somehow dousing questions on what the future holds for the former NBA MVP.

While this could be a temporary setup with the Houston Rockets for now, most could not help notice the physique of the 31-year-old guard when he played against the San Antonio Spurs in a pre-season showdown.

The sight of Harden somehow cooled the air on his status. Most know that he wants out of Houston, but no deal has yet to be done.

Hence, he has no choice but to suit up with the Rockets. But he may be silently sending a message by showing up visibly overweight.

NBA fans took several jabs at the eight-time NBA all-star. One aimed at his bulkiness, saying how he transformed into a “James Hamburger.”

Another Twitter user even compared him to NFL player Jason Peters, an offensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles.

There are two ways to look at why Harden does not appear to be his usual self. On one hand, he spent a great deal of time partying in Las Vegas.

The other is that it could be his way of saying that he will suit up but on his terms. He was a late-attendee to training camp and someone who hardly had the motivation to get in shape until he gets what he wants–in this case, the deal that would send him to another team.

Harden has the time to whip himself back into shape if he wants to. As mentioned in a previous post, “The Beard” may play half-heartedly for Houston for the time being.

However, this may have dire repercussions. If teams interested in him see his current physique and attitude, it could alter interest in him.

Regardless, the good news is that Harden is back playing NBA ball. He was not that dominant in the Rockets' win over the Spurs, 112-98, the Houston Chronicle reported.