James Harden: Tallies career-high 17 assists in loss

Harden and his teammates’ second-half struggles from three-point range ended up proving costly in the season opener, but the 27-year-old’s stat line illustrated why the fantasy industry is so bullish on his prospects in his first season in new coach Mike D’Antoni’s offense. The full-time move to point guard immediately paid dividends in the assist column, and Harden still managed to get his points while making his living at the free-throw line. Assuming the Rockets stick with Harden as their full-time ball-handler even once Patrick Beverley (knee) returns, his potential is limitless, especially in eight-category leagues. The seven turnovers he tallied Wednesday figure to be a common occurrence, and will have more negative consequences in nine-category leagues.