While Russell Westbrook has dominated the MVP discussions due to his triple-double averages throughout the current season, it cannot be denied that James Harden is also having a breakout year that inevitably qualifies him for the valuable plum. The Oklahoma City Thunder is thriving with superstar Kevin Durant gone but so is Houston, and in a big way.

Not only are the Rockets winning with James Harden all over the floor. They are on a remarkable run with their prolific leader playing the point which is something bizarre considering how the former Thunder has been a high-scoring off-guard all these years. Even more astounding is the fact that Houston is adjusting well to a new system.

Mike D'Antoni's time in Phoenix is well-documented and closely-followed. A lot of people thought that his 'Seven seconds or less' approach with the Suns is a thing of the past. However, the lights out shooting plays are back. It has all started with Harden assuming a new role.

Already an elite scorer even during his stint in Oklahoma, the man they call the Beard has catapulted himself among the better orchestrators of the game today. James Harden has upped his 7.5 assists per game average last season to a league-leading 11.2 handouts this year. Considering that he is among the NBA's top scorers, Westbrook's former teammate is on track to lead the league in scoring and assists during the regular season since Nate Archibald in 1973.

Ranking third in the tough Western Conference, the Houston Rockets are a thing of beauty on the floor especially when the three-ball starts pouring in. With D'Antoni at the helm, the addition of Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon has made the team formidable from the perimeter. With James Harden ranking first in points made through assists at 28.6 per game, there is only one way the Rockets are heading and that is up.

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