Former NBA player and current analyst Charles Barkley took the attention while covering the semi-final game of the in-season tournament between the Indiana Pacers and the Milwaukee Bucks. Barkley took a playful jab at James Harden.
During a crossover event between ESPN’s ‘NBA Countdown‘ and TNT’s ‘Inside the NBA,‘ Barkley humorously stated that James Harden had expressed interest in being traded to Indiana.“I was talking to Woj and Woj said Haliburton is playing so good, James Harden wanted to be traded to Indiana!”
“Haliburton is playing so good, James Harden wanted to be traded to Indiana.” 🤣
Chuck trolls Harden pic.twitter.com/zGe8zOemih
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 8, 2023
The comment highlights Harden’s history of trade requests, including his moves from the Houston Rockets to the Brooklyn Nets, and later to the Philadelphia 76ers, before finally joining the Los Angeles Clippers. Barkley’s joke also highlights the outstanding performance of Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton, who has been an important player in leading his team to the Finals of the In-Season Tournament.
How has James Harden impacted the Los Angeles Clippers?
James Harden has had a major impact on the team’s dynamics and performance since his trade to the Los Angeles Clippers. Initially, the team faced a challenging run that included a six-game losing streak.
But the Clippers turned things around, losing only three of their last ten matches, with Harden playing an important role in this recovery. His recent outstanding performance was against Denver where he recorded 20 points, 1 rebound, and 11 assists.
Harden’s presence has changed the Clippers’ starting lineup, allowing stars like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George to adapt to the new system. Russell Westbrook too is adjusting his role for the team’s benefit. The evolving team chemistry and Harden’s strategic game-reading have positioned the Clippers as a strong team in the ongoing season.
Tyrese Haliburton is a strong contender for NBA In-Season Tournament MVP
Tyrese Haliburton has made a strong case for the NBA In-Season MVP title. His outstanding performance against the Milwaukee Bucks in the semi-final, where he scored 27 points, and recorded 15 assists and 7 rebounds highlights his all-around abilities.
So far this season Haliburton has averaged 28 points, 5.2 rebounds, 13.4 assists, 1.6 steals, and a 50.5% shooting rate. His ability to perform in crucial moments has helped the Indiana Pacers to overcome teams like the Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and the Bucks.