James Harden Is Clueless About Clippers’ Rise and Fall Conundrums Since His Trade
Follow Us
James Harden was acquired by the Los Angeles Clippers after the 1st week of the season. He bought hopes for a championship season behind his peculiar offense. However, the Clippers embarked on a losing streak right away. With their star-studded lineup, the roster fell prey to finding cohesion within their rotations. Soon, as Russell Westbrook took the backseat, coupled with more alterations, the Clippers sprung an winning run.
The team, throughout a 31-game stretch, won 26 contests and capitalized on every element of their lineup. However, they are yet again churning out a set of disappointing games. With a 9-11 record throughout their previous 20 games, the Clippers record an 18-22 haul outside of their victorious 31 game stretch.
So, when the Clippers lost 133-116 to Indiana Pacers, Harden was probed about the ultimate caliber of their roster. In light of their distinct runs, he was asked, “Which one of those tells the story of this team, or is there a truth somewhere in the middle of that?.” With a warm smile acting like a full point, Harden said, “We don’t know.” However, when explored more about his sentiments, Harden referred to the 31-game stretch. Clueless of the numbers, he simply said, “It’s 25 and 5,” before stepping away from the mics.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Are the Clippers the team that had a 26-5 stretch or the team that has gone 18-22 outside of that stretch?
James Harden: “We don’t know.” pic.twitter.com/BzDdvNeOaI
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) March 26, 2024
Currently, the Clippers are carrying a losing run sparked by a February 7 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans. It ended their 15-3 run since the new year, catapulting them into a 2-5 run through the remaining games in February.
Moreover, the March 1 game resulted in a Russell Westbrook injury, forcing the guard to seek surgery days later and de-tour from the court. His absence acted like broken springs on the slow-leak of team’s wheels. However, the Clippers resonated another dismal display as Westbrook returns weeks after.
James Harden and co underperform in Brodie’s return
After Russell Westbrook’s injury, the Clippers managed to win against the highly energetic Minnesota Timberwolves in the next game. Nevertheless, the Clippers have resulted a 5-7 record in March ever since.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Despite talents like James Harden, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, the team lacked the athletic and energetic presence in Westbrook. While Terance Mann and Norman Powell helped cover the spread, they did with their fair share of injuries and sidelining.
Trending
Bronny in Deep Waters as $800,000 Suffering Forces LeBron James’ Son to End College Career With Major Declining Numbers
April 27, 2024 01:45 PM EDT
Draymond Green ‘Disappointed’ In Anthony Davis For Throwing Darvin Ham Under The Bus On Live TV
April 27, 2024 02:44 AM EDT
“It Will Ruin the Game”: Citing Caitlin Clark’s Example, Geno Auriemma Warns WNBA
April 27, 2024 03:31 PM EDT
“So Rigged”: All Hell Breaks Loose as Jamal Murray Forces LeBron James’ Lakers Into Bitter Embarrassment
April 23, 2024 06:21 AM EDT
“Livid”: Dejected Fans Shocked As LeBron James Screams At Darvin Ham & Lakers’ Bench
April 28, 2024 04:25 AM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
However, the recent loss to Indiana saw Russell taking the floor first time after his injury. With no minute restrictions, he took over right from where he left off. The former MVP posted played 18 minutes while adding 14 points, 7 assists and 4 rebounds.
James Harden Is Clueless About Clippers’ Rise and Fall Conundrums Since His Trade
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
With that, the question still looms over the Clippers’ identity. Are they truly a top caliber team in the league? or this just another difficult phase in their dramatic season?
Edited by:
Saumya Khanduja