Los Angeles Clippers player James Harden has cemented his status as a superstar with instrumental performances that have uplifted the franchise. Bringing out a more aggressive mentality, Harden has integrated seamlessly, bridging the gap between Paul George and Kawhi Leonard.
However, since Harden’s acquisition, there have been doubts and concerns regarding his fit with the team and the potential chemistry clash between the superstars. With the Clippers effortlessly winning games, James Harden is on a mission to silence his critics.
James Harden reflects on overcoming doubts and negative talk
Harden was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in last November in a shocking move that stunned the entire league. While his former venture with Joel Embiid and the Sixers ended without success and the relationship turned sour, the superstar forced his way out of the team, only to find a potential opening with the Clippers.
In the beginning, the move was filled with skepticism, questioning Harden’s ability to play alongside superstars in a united goal for the NBA championship. In his first few games with the team, analysts were quick to point out the minute mistakes and exaggerated the losing streak of the team to a massive extent.
In his time with the Clippers, the player has learned to accept a new role, playing alongside superstars Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. The star is averaging 17.1 points per game and dishing out 8.5 assists per game, becoming an efficient piece for the Clippers franchise.
With his performances transforming the Clippers to reach great heights, Harden didn’t hesitate to hit back at his doubters who questioned his abilities when the trade went through. Speaking to the media, Harden said, “Obviously it didn’t start well. It gave people so much to talk about negatively and now those people that were talking are nowhere to be found. Like, nowhere to be found.”
Clippers’ rise in the west proves James Harden made the right choice
There is no doubt that the James Harden made the right choice in choosing the Los Angeles Clippers as his “home”. If anything, it provides the star with the perfect opportunity to thrive alongside massive superstars such as Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and Russell Westbrook.
A healthy Kawhi Leonard, an impressive Paul George, and the flawless James Harden have completely revitalized the franchise, instilling a sense of hope with their vicious offense and breathtaking defense. The team started their first few games with Harden going winless but made a striving comeback to go 18-4 since December.
While James Harden provides the team with variety in terms of scoring and facilitation, the duo of Paul George and Kawhi Leonard has been clinical on both ends of the court. This season, Paul George is averaging 23.6 points per game, 5.6 rebounds per game, and 3.6 assists per game. Similarly, Kawhi is averaging 23.7 points per game, 3.6 assists, and 6 rebounds a game.
Signed in 2018, the duo of Paul George and Kawhi Leonard will hope to win their first title for the Clippers in what will be considered a failure otherwise. Along with James Harden and Russell Westbrook, the team has all the resources and pieces it needs to win a championship.
What are your thoughts on the LA Clippers chances this season? Do you think James Harden made the right choice? Will the Clippers lift the title this year? We are eager to know your thoughts and opinions, so feel free to comment below.
