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Report: Rockets feel no pressure to trade Westbrook, Harden

Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / Getty

With Russell Westbrook and James Harden dominating the rumor mill of late, the Houston Rockets' front office is adamant it won't be rushed into potentially moving one or both of the team's stars.

The organization is "willing to get uncomfortable" when it comes to the handling of its All-NBA backcourt as the regular season approaches, sources told ESPN's Tim MacMahon.

Westbrook reportedly told the Rockets last week he wants to leave the club after one season. Since then, the 32-year-old has been linked to the Charlotte Hornets and, more recently, the Washington Wizards. Meanwhile, Harden reportedly declined a lucrative extension that would have paid him $50 million per season in order to attempt to facilitate a trade to the Brooklyn Nets.

Westbrook and Harden are under team control through the 2021-22 season. Both of their contracts also contain lucrative player options for the 2022-23 campaign.

To get Harden from Houston, teams would need to present a package that includes a young star and multiple draft picks, according to MacMahon. The Rockets also aren't willing to part with Westbrook unless they receive young players or first-round picks in return.

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