Houston Rockets Need James Harden to Keep Being James Harden

When Rockets GM Daryl Morey pulled off the last minute trade before the start of the season for James Harden they knew they were taking a 6th Man and thrusting him into the star's role--and for the most part he has responded to the challenge.

With the Houston Rockets back in the playoffs for the first time since the 2008-09 season it is safe to say that Harden is worth what the team paid for him. However, even though they are in where they are positioned is still up for discussion.

Lose to the Lakers Wednesday night and the fall to the No. 8 seed and meet the Thunder in the first round. Win and they remain the No. 7 and will face off with San Antonio.

Neither match up is an easy one, but the team doesn't want to go into the post season on a losing note. It will be tough to win in Los Angeles, but if Harden can have a few plays like this one Houston's chances will be pretty good: