Rockets want a proven, young star and massive picks package for James Harden

The Houston Rockets are not in a hurry to trade Russell Westbrook and James Harden that wants out of the team.

Both players have three years remaining on his contract with the final year as player options.

Per ESPN, The Rockets are demanding an especially steep return for Harden, a perennial MVP candidate who has led the NBA in scoring the past three seasons: a proven, young star as a centerpiece along with a massive picks package, according to sources. Houston does not feel obligated to deliver Harden to the Brooklyn Nets, his preferred destination, sources said.

The Rockets also understand that Westbrook, for whom Houston gave up Chris Paul, two first-round picks and two pick swaps last summer at Harden’s urging, would not command the same type of trade return as Harden. However, Houston is unwilling to deal Westbrook without receiving assets such as young talent or first-round picks.