Really a non story. He said that he likes to go off to the side and clear his mind before the tip off. No one cares if he is in the huddle or not.
James Harden has a weird brain. Sometimes it sees and executes an amazing crosscourt pass out of the corner of his field of vision. Sometimes it slows down the universe and finds an invisible slot to dish for a dunk with two guys hanging on him. Sometimes it makes him roll his eyes and walk out of an interview. It's a tradeoff. I'll take the deal.
I am sure someone will take that photo from the initial post, put it on twitter, have it go viral, have a narrative build and then more unwarranted stink will be added to Harden's reputation.
Beard has his own routine: The Beard launching himself into a padded stanchion just before tipoff, then points at his Mom at home games before tipoff. It's worked this season, why doubt him?
The huddle probably just chants "Harden will lead us to championship. All for Harden!". It would be weird if Harden joins that.
So many people in the public hate harden because he is introverted and aloof...not a big deal. They gotta chill and let him be who he is