It comes as no surprise that James Harden, who is averaging 35.3 points per game on 52.9% shooting, has been named the Western Conference's player of the week. In the worst of Harden's three outings thus far he put up 22 points, six rebounds, and five assists in an overtime loss. James Harden hasn't just looked good in red — he has looked elite.

Harden is averaging a career high 41.7 minutes per game and has acclimated nicely to his starting role. With some time off this week to rest and get to know his team better, expect some big things from Harden on Wednesday as he continues to become Houston's franchise player.

We'll see how he holds up in the long run, because he's obviously going to dip below the 30 points-per-game mark at some point. Really? Yes, he will. It's inevitable, but that doesn't mean that 25 points per game is out of the question. Not at all. As for a chance at an MVP? Again, let's put the breaks on for just a bit.

Read more at Rockets.com.