New Orleans Pelicans: Ranking the Top-Ten Backcourts in the NBA

#5: James Harden and Russell Westbrook, Houston Rockets

This one is sure to be the most controversial choice on the list.

Yes, James Harden and Russell Westbrook are perennial MVP candidates and have both won the award.

Yes, they put up insane numbers from the guard position and are difficult to stop.

Yes, they are two of the best players in the NBA.

So why are they so low on this list?

Personally, I find Harden and Westbrook to be two of the most boring players to watch in the NBA regardless of stats.

It’s also not evident that this backcourt made the Rockets better, as the Thunder overtook the Rockets in the West after the Paul/Westbrook trade.

Harden is scoring a league-leading 34.4 per game and is on his way to another scoring title. He’s nearly unstoppable offensively.

But does anyone outside of Houston like watching him play?

Harden flops his way to free throw after free throw and chucks up 3-point shots when he’s not flailing around like he just got shot.

I don’t blame him. The NBA hasn’t figured out how to officiate Harden and he’s just taking advantage of teams who can’t stop him from getting to the rim without fouling.

But, my goodness it is boring to watch.

Same with Westbrook, who is still the worst 3-point shooter in league history. Unlike Harden he at least plays defense, swiping 1.7 steals per game.

These two are the highest scoring backcourt in the league and many would have them at the top of the list, but this is my list and I can’t stand watching these two.

I admit it is personal.

If you enjoy watching free throw shooting, flopping and murderous glares, this is the backcourt for you, enjoy!