Following an impressive victory over the Warriors last Friday, Clippers guard James Harden took a moment to reflect during his media chat. Rather than dwelling on personal achievements or scoring prowess, Harden emphasized his commitment to winning at all costs.
“For me, it doesn’t matter if I score 10 points or what,” Harden stated. “Winning is the key. Despite my various individual accomplishments and stats, it’s about building team chemistry and achieving success together.”
James Harden delivered a stellar performance in Friday’s game, notching 28 points, 15 assists, and 7 rebounds in 42 minutes of play. This marked the Clippers’ sixth consecutive win, showcasing their positive momentum since acquiring Harden last month. Despite the absence of Paul George due to injury, the team has seamlessly integrated Harden and Kawhi Leonard, with Leonard displaying a return to his peak two-way form.
Reflecting on Harden’s journey, he was drafted third to the Thunder in 2009, initially serving as a sixth man. His true superstar status emerged after a trade to the Rockets in 2012, where he excelled with impressive scoring averages. Harden reached his peak during the 2017-18 season, leading the league with 30.4 points and 8.8 assists per game.
As a 10-time All-Star, 7-time All-NBA player, 3-time scoring champion, and 1-time MVP, Harden has solidified his legacy as one of the greatest shooting guards in modern NBA history. However, his focus is now on the Clippers, where he aims to secure his first NBA championship
In the Clippers’ fifth year of the Kawhi Leonard era, they are still seeking a championship. Despite a somewhat rocky 14-10 start to the season in mid-December, the combined talents of Leonard, Paul George, and James Harden provide a unique advantage in every matchup. The key challenge lies in the trio finding the right chemistry to unlock the team’s full potential. Harden, adaptable and committed to the team’s success, is actively exploring his role with the Clippers. If the three stars can harmonize their play, the Clippers may finally realize their championship aspirations, signaling a positive shift in their favor.