Harden focused on wins, not MVP

As much as the Rockets’ meeting with the Thunder on Sunday was billed as final head-to-head arguments in the James Harden vs. Russell Westbrook MVP competition, neither saw it that way.

“I worry about what we have here and winning games,” Harden said.

Westbrook is happy to see Harden’s success.

“I just play, man,” Westbrook said. “I go out and play every night and play at a high level like I do every single night and try to help us win.

“I’ve been knowing James since he was little, and we both grew up in California. Being here, it’s a blessing to be able to have people you grow up with in the NBA. It’s something you don’t take for granted and friendships are something I don’t take for granted. James is a good friend of mine, and I am a good friend of his. Obviously, I know he’s playing well and his team is doing well, but I know he competes every game.”