The arrival of James Harden to the Los Angeles Clippers has sparked a lot of criticism and reactions among NBA fans. Since Harden’s addition to the Clippers’ lineup, the team has experienced a major decline, losing three consecutive games and being outscored by 39 points. Whereas the Philadelphia 76ers, Harden’s last team are on a 5-0 run.
Fans have expressed their dissatisfaction on social media, with some labeling Harden as a negative influence on the team’s chemistry. One fan stated, “He’s ruined the Clippers they might have to trade him.”
One fan directly criticized Harden by calling him a “system destroyer,” while another commented “a poison” for the team. The Clippers’ recent 144-126 loss to the Dallas Mavericks, where Harden scored 14 points with three assists, further intensified the criticism among the Clippers fanbase.
James Harden wants 10-game adjustment period
Amid the increasing criticism and a challenging start with the Clippers, James Harden has requested a 10-game window to evaluate his performance and fit with the team. Harden, who was traded from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Clippers on November 1, expressed that his lack of a proper training camp and preseason has impacted his integration into the Clippers’ system.
“For me individually, this is only my third game. I didn’t have a training camp, I didn’t have a preseason, so everything is still moving fast speed for me. I need about a 10-game window then kind of see where I am from there.”
James Harden to reporters last night in Dallas: “For me individually, this is only my third game. I didn’t have a training camp, I didn’t have a preseason, so everything is still moving fast speed for me. I need about a 10-game window then kind of see where I am from there.”
— Law Murray 🧾 (@LawMurrayTheNU) November 11, 2023
Even after averaging 14.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.7 assists in his first three games, Harden’s contribution has not yet helped in wins for the Clippers. The team’s next few games, including a matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies, are anticipated to be important in determining Harden’s role and effectiveness within the team.
Stephen A. Smith highlights potential ego clashes with James Harden
Renowned NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith has shared his concerns regarding James Harden’s addition to the Clippers, highlighting the possibility of ego clashes. “I don’t know how wise it was for them to bring James Harden to LA. Yeah,” Smith said. “You probably did it because you needed a safety net.”
Smith added: “That shit ain’t gonna work. It’s not gonna work. Egos are going to get in the way.”
The Clippers have been BAD since the James Harden trade pic.twitter.com/3TautA4OYg
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) November 11, 2023
Even though the team has star players like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, Smith doesn’t think the Clippers can use their talents effectively with Harden in the mix. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Clippers manage these changes and whether Harden can adapt to the team’s culture and playing style.