Chandler Parsons may have been motivated to leave the Houston Rockets for a bigger role.

James Harden believes the Rockets won't take a step back despite losing Parsons to the Dallas Mavericks in the offseason.

"Dwight and I are the cornerstones of the Rockets," Harden said while appearing at a charity event in the Philippines, according to The Philippine Star. "The rest of the guys are role players or pieces that complete our team. We've lost some pieces and added some pieces.

"I think we'll be fine next season."

Parsons averaged 16.6 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game last season.

"That's a pretty ridiculous statement if he meant that," Parsons said. "That's part of the reason I wanted to go to Dallas, because I'm ready for that next step. I'm ready for a bigger role, and I'm ready for more leadership.

"If anybody should understand that, it's James, because he was in the same situation in Oklahoma City and then he got his chance to come to Houston and shine. I'm not real sure what that means."