The Los Angeles Clippers have assembled a star-studded lineup of players ready to sacrifice personal achievements for the collective strength of the team. This approach has proven highly successful for the team, and James Harden, one of its most recent acquisitions, is already settling into the charismatic team environment.
This season, the Clippers have been electric led by their dynamic duo, Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. With James Harden settling in comfortably, the Clippers may go on to become one of the most competitive teams for the years to come.
Harden reflects on past sacrifices and current opportunity
The Los Angeles Clippers acquired James Harden in November last year, following the star’s outburst and rejection to play for the Philadelphia Sixers. Ever since the trade, Harden has been putting on a show for the Clippers franchise, showing everyone that he is worth every penny.
However, the rejuvenated James Harden is looking forward to achieving great success with his new team, the Los Angeles Clippers. The star spoke to reporters about how he envisioned his retirement with the Sixers with all the sacrifices he made which ultimately did not seem to reap any benefits.
Speaking on the sacrifices he made previously, Harden said, “I thought the same thing last year, the last team I was on. That’s why I did all those sacrifices, but I’m here, home.”
With Harden calling the Clippers his home, there is no doubt that there is a great level of connection between him and the city, a connection that goes beyond basketball. This season, Harden has been crucial to the Clippers’ success bridging the gap between George and Kawhi and becoming an anchor for the team on offense.
While averaging a significant 16.9 points per game for the team, James Harden’s real impact comes from his 8.4 assists per game, making him a centerpiece for the Clippers. With Harden on the floor, the Clippers boast an impressive 18-4 record since December, the best in the league. Now calling the Clippers home, Harden has signaled his intention for a long-term extension, aiming to contribute to the team’s consistent dominance for a considerable amount of time.
Clippers star emphasizes happiness and long-term vision for the team
With the way the Los Angeles Clippers are tearing up the league, there is no doubt that James Harden is in his element playing effortless basketball. The star who joined the team last year had enjoyed much success and been a vital figure in their dominant approach. Apart from the shot variety he brings, Harden has been a key facilitator in moving the ball from one end to another.
The star spoke about how happy he was playing for the team and envisioned winning the prestigious NBA championship with the group of players that the Clippers currently boast of. Harden said, “We have an opportunity. I want to be able to keep the core together for a few years and I haven’t had those opportunities the last few years so things are going well and I’m happy.”
Recently, Kawhi Leonard inked an extension with the Clippers that will ensure that the star will play for the Clippers for another three years. While Harden is more than eager to sign a long-term contract with the team, he cannot do that just yet as he is under a contract that will only expire after the NBA Finals, later this year.
Considering the potential success, the Clippers will hope to secure deals with core members of the team, with both Paul George and Russell Westbrook set for eligible extensions. Playing in probably one of the best-formed team’s in his career, James Harden will hope to lift the NBA trophy in the team’s maiden voyage with this set of players.
What do you think of Harden’s role with the Clippers? Are the Clippers legitimate contenders this season? We are eager to know your opinions on James Harden and the Los Angeles Clippers this season, so feel free to comment below.
