James Harden has been ruled out of the Houston Rockets' showdown with reigning NBA champions the Golden State Warriors due to neck injury.

Rockets head coach Mike D'Antoni announced Harden's absence just hours before Saturday's clash.

Harden was officially listed as questionable for Houston's road game as a result of a cervical strain in his neck.

But the in-form Rockets star is now out with the injury as well as flu-like symptoms.

It is not clear when Harden initially suffered the injury, but ESPN notes he received treatment on his right shoulder and neck while resting on the sideline during Thursday's loss to the Los Angeles Lakers.

However, that did not limit Harden's play as he finished the game with 30 points in 37 minutes.

Harden also had pain from a left shoulder strain in the days leading up to the All-Star break, though it did not force him to miss any games.

Harden is making a strong case for his MVP campaign, averaging 36.5 points, 6.7 rebounds and 7.7 assists to help the Rockets to a 33-25 record.