Rockets' Mike D'Antoni says James Harden is 'at another level'

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As often as Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni has said he is running out of new ways to gush about James Harden's play, Harden put up a 20-point first quarter, making all seven shots he took on Monday, forcing D'Antoni to try it again.

"He is better," D'Antoni said. "He is playing at another level, without a doubt. His defense has been terrific, but his offense has been off the charts. Yesterday's first quarter, I've never seen that before. That's ridiculous what he did. His efficiency has been really, really good."

Harden did not agree, saying his play has been same old, same old.

His approach might not have changed, but his play has seemed to have reached "another level." In November, Harden has averaged 35.4 points and 10.1 assists, leading the NBA in scoring and ranking second to teammate Chris Paul in assists this month. His 5.3 3-pointers and 9.8 free throws per game in November have led the NBA, while making 47.7 percent of his shots, 44.1 percent of his 3-pointers.

Asked if he felt he was playing any better than usual, Harden said, "No. It feels like normal to me."

He does, however, feel better in general, often saying he is more comfortable than ever with the franchise and his place in it.

"I'm really engaged, though," Harden said. "I think from top to bottom, from players and coaching staff, from guys in the training room, I think we're all engaged with each other. We're all on the same page. That makes everybody's job a lot easier.

Houston Rockets guard James Harden reacts after making a 3-point basket during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Brooklyn Nets, Monday, Nov. 27, 2017, in Houston. Houston won the game 117-103. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith) less Houston Rockets guard James Harden reacts after making a 3-point basket during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Brooklyn Nets, Monday, Nov. 27, 2017, in Houston. Houston won the game ... more Photo: Eric Christian Smith/Associated Press Photo: Eric Christian Smith/Associated Press Image 1 of / 30 Caption Close Rockets' Mike D'Antoni says James Harden is 'at another level' 1 / 30 Back to Gallery

"I think everybody on the team, everybody in this lockerroom and in this organization, are all on the same page. Obviously, coach is doing a really good job of preparing us. As players we're doing a really good job of communicating and trying to execute the game plan every single night."