Harden holds out hope for extension with Thunder

Harden heads into this season as possibly the odd man out in the Thunder's young nucleus. Like Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and Serge Ibaka before him, he's eligible for his first contract extension and would become a restricted free agent if he doesn't get a new deal by next July.

The difference for Harden is that small-market Oklahoma City, approaching the salary cap with all the others already locked into long-term deals, may not be able — or willing — to pay the luxury tax likely to come along with Harden's price tag.

"Everything will figure itself out eventually," Harden said at the team's preseason media day Monday. "Right now, training camp is starting. I think everybody is excited to be here and just to enjoy each other's company. We really missed each other."

Harden predicted that he'll agree to terms on a new contract by the end of the month and said that he's focused on "hooping," and not on the negotiations.

"I have confidence in my agent and the organization to get it done," Harden said. "They know how important it is, so I'm sure it will be done."

Harden averaged 16.8 points and 3.7 assists last season, earning recognition as the league's best bench player as Oklahoma City made it to the NBA Finals before losing to Miami.

The core players from that run are back for this season, but could it be the team's last chance to pursue a title with Harden in the mix?

"I just think about the first day of training camp. That's all I'm going to be thinking about," three-time NBA scoring champion Kevin Durant said. "Everything's going to work itself out."

"James is a key part to our team. We're very excited to have him here. ... It's his fourth year. Just being with him that long, being with the rest of the guys that long, I'm just excited to start a new season."