The Houston Rockets are beginning to feel the negative effects of James Harden's absence from training camp.
Harden missed Monday's practice after not being with the team last week. The star guard also failed to report for the Rockets' first official practice Sunday and an individual workout later in the day.
When asked about when Harden could report to the team, head coach Stephen Silas didn't express much optimism about the developing situation.
"There is no timetable (for Harden's return) and it is a setback," Silas said Monday, according to The Athletic's Kelly Iko.
"What's real is he's not here, and he has a reason, and it's on him to tell whoever," the first-year bench boss added.
Silas mentioned the Rockets aren't at the point of punishing Harden yet. The disgruntled former MVP apparently said Sunday he'll join the team "soon."
Harden reportedly demanded a trade to the Brooklyn Nets last month after rejecting a two-year extension from the Rockets that would have paid him more than $50 million annually. The 31-year-old is set to earn over $85 million during the next two seasons of his contract. His deal also contains a $47.3-million player option for the 2022-23 season.
