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The James Harden saga continues. This seems like the 76ers are simply going in circles with The Beard. Despite everything, a stroke of genius from Daryl Morey’s side is the signing of former Hornets guard Kelly Oubre Jr.

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Oubre had a career-best season, averaging 20 points per game in 48 games, before becoming a free agent. Though he never got a chance to become a key player on a contender, he sure hopes to make his mark with the 76ers. Aside from that, there still seem to be some “Beard” fans out there, hoping Harden will continue in Philly.

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Harden finds wholehearted support from Patrick Beverly

Fellow teammate and the Philadelphia 76ers point guard, Patrick Beverly has a unique insight into why Harden should stay with the team. In his PatBevPod podcast, he explains his reasons in a surprisingly compelling manner.

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“When you play with James Harden and he throws the ball, you don’t have to do anything with it. The seams are literally perfect every single time … That’s like getting out of bed and your teeth are brushed.” 

Well, there won’t be anyone in this world who could say ‘No’ to such an offer.

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Read More: 3 Years After Marrying James Harden’s Ex, Kelly Oubre Jr.’s “My Heartbeat” Remark Could Force Former MVP Out of 76ers, Amid Daryl Morey Masterstroke

It’s not even a debate when it comes to Harden’s skills as a player. His defense skills are amazing. But his offensive skills are elite.

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What makes James Harden an elite offensive player

Harden is able to score, he’s able to do so efficiently and he involves his teammates while doing so. Those three things make him an elite offensive player. And not just in the league. In his two years with Houston, he has averaged 25.7 points on a .609 true shooting percentage, adding 6.0 assists while doing so.

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According to Kirk Goldsberry, former VP for strategic research for the Spurs, Harden “is one of the smartest on-court players in the NBA … Between his Eurostep and his incredible ability to get fouled, Harden might be a referee’s nightmare, but he’s also one of the best scorers in the league.” His time with the Houstons definitely got him wide recognition. But his growing frustration with the 76ers for some time now has derailed his high.

Watch This Story: James Harden Get a Bombshell Update on Trade Saga Amid Controversial Return to Sixers Training Camp

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Harden had a down season offensively by averaging 22.0 points per game – his lowest mark since the 2011-12 season when he was still with the Thunder. If he shows renewed energy and comes into training camp in shape, a very productive season could be on the horizon.

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Written by

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Geisha Pulimoottil Don

1,727 Articles

Geisha P. Don is an NBA Editor at EssentiallySports, where she manages a team of five reporters. A literature graduate, she brings a writer's empathy to her coverage, delving into the human side of athletes' lives.

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Bilal Handoo

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