The Beard has landed.
James Harden arrived in Houston on Tuesday and was tested in accordance with NBA COVID-19 protocols, Rockets coach Stephen Silas confirmed, according to ESPN's Tim MacMahon.
Harden had been a no-show after the Rockets opened individual workouts last week, instead making appearances at two separate birthday parties for rapper Lil Baby in Atlanta and Las Vegas, respectively.
The three-time NBA scoring champion has reportedly demanded a trade, with the Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers being his preferred destinations. However, Houston reportedly hasn't had any substantive discussions with either team.
On Sunday, rookie head coach Silas questioned why Harden hadn't reported to the Rockets.
"I'm not exactly sure what hoops he has to jump through in order to practice with the team," Silas said.
On Tuesday, Silas said he hopes to build trust with Harden.
"Trust is built day-to-day, and once the relationship begins, we'll begin that process of trust," the coach said. "Obviously, there wasn't a great start to it, but that's the NBA. The NBA is not going to be roses every day."
