Harden comfortable with return once pandemic has 'calmed down'

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James Harden is willing to wait as long as necessary before resuming the 2019-20 NBA season.

The Houston Rockets star said he's eager for the league to conclude the campaign but only once the COVID-19 pandemic has "calmed down all the way to a minimum," according to CNBC's Jabari Young.

More details regarding a potential return have trickled down in recent days. It was reported Wednesday that Walt Disney World in Orlando has emerged as a front-runner to host at least part of the remaining season in a private, campus-like environment.

Teams reportedly expect the league to issue guidelines toward the beginning of June that would allow them to recall players who have spent the hiatus outside their respective markets.

However, the NBA is not yet prepared to establish any such guidelines, a source told Young.

Harden confirmed the players' union has held several discussions with the league on how to safely resume the season. However, he cautioned that "there are so many things that have to be figured out."

The Rockets guard said he's willing to play without fans in attendance and wants any solution to prioritize the well-being of everyone involved.

"I want it to be safe," Harden said. "I want it to be entertaining for the fans and players to get out there and compete. As soon as we can get this ramped up, I'm ready to go. I feel like the majority of the players feel the same way."