D'Antoni: Harden is 'the best offensive player I've ever seen'

Houston Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni has witnessed plenty of talented players since first suiting up in the NBA 45 years ago and while coaching for the past two decades, but he says none were better offensively than the one who's currently leading his team.

D'Antoni offered up high praise for James Harden following Tuesday's 115-111 win over the Portland Trail Blazers, in which the superstar guard hit a pair of clutch 3-pointers and finished with 42 points and seven assists.

"That's the best offensive player I've ever seen," D'Antoni said of Harden, as quoted by USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick.

"They were running guys to him, and he just steps a little further back and hits a three. You know, the way he can pass and see the floor, get fouls, layups, floaters, maybe a lob, maybe out to the corner, he has so many weapons, and now he's shooting those step-back threes, it's impossible to guard him. It's impossible."

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Harden's performance was just the latest in a season that's seen him all but lock up the Most Valuable Player award. He's finished second in the voting twice before, but has yet to capture the honor.

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D'Antoni is a firm believer that this is Harden's year, as the Beard has propelled the Rockets to the best record in the NBA. He leads the league in 3-pointers, free throws, and points per game with 31.2. He also ranks first in win shares, usage, and PER, as well as third in assists (8.7).

"He's got one flaw. He does get tired some. He's mortal. And that's it," D'Antoni added.