NBA Rumors: OKC Thunder Must Give James Harden Max Deal

James Harden won't be eligible for free agency until after next season, but the Oklahoma City Thunder would be wise to lock him up with as much money as they can legally pay him.

That might be difficult to stomach with Kevin Durant scheduled to earn the league maximum over the next four seasons and Russell Westbrook recently signed to a similarly huge deal. Retaining Harden would likely require the Thunder to spend many millions in luxury taxes for the foreseeable future if GM Sam Presti hopes to have more than a three-man roster.

Things will get even pricier with Serge Ibaka's payday coming in the not-too-distant future.

Still, this is a move the Thunder have to make.

If Harden proved anything with his 40-point outburst against the Phoenix Suns, it's that he's an essential part of the mix in Oklahoma City and a franchise player on any given night.

Harden is averaging 16.8 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists in just over 31 minutes a game this season. He's a virtual lock for Sixth Man of the Year honors and a vital component to Oklahoma City's winning formula.

Quite simply, the Thunder could remain perennial contenders with Harden, but they may not stand a chance without him.

His athleticism may not wow you, but that's precisely what makes him such a smart long-term investment. This is a guy with the talent and IQ to needed to play well for years to come. He's also tough, both physically and mentally—there's a championship pedigree here that's highly uncommon among 22-year-olds. 

Harden can get into the paint thanks to long strides and footwork that would make Manu Ginobili proud, and he's hitting 39 percent of the 4.7 three-pointers he attempts each game. With Durant and Westbrook, he gives the Thunder three dynamic scorers who can play on the perimeter or take the ball inside.

That's a luxury to be sure, and Oklahoma City's 46 wins have proven as much. With that kind of success, it's the kind of luxury you don't mind paying some taxes on.

Like any team with three well-paid superstars, the Thunder will need to rely on draft picks, mid-level exceptions and some creative management to maintain some semblance of depth.

Without Harden, though, depth may not do this team much good.