The arrival of James Harden to the Philadelphia 76ers boosted their championship hopes for the season. This was especially true since Joel Embiid’s former co-star, Ben Simmons, did not suit up for the team. The trade with the Brooklyn Nets for Harden gave the 76ers not just someone who can score, but a former league MVP who knows how to win. Alongside Embiid, Harden and the Sixers are strong contenders for the Larry O’Brien trophy.

In the 8 games that Harden has played for the Sixers, he has won 6 and lost 2. In fact, the team’s most recent loss would be against the Denver Nuggets. Although Harden had a near triple-double performance, the 76ers lost to the Nuggets by 4 points. An interesting moment arose in the game’s 4th quarter. Harden nearly got into a scuffle with Nuggets’ veteran DeMarcus Cousins. However, the latter just laughed in the face of the ‘Beard’.

James Harden and DeMarcus Cousins

With a little over 7 minutes left in the 4th quarter, Harden’s Sixers found themselves trailing by two points. At that moment, Harden was in the midst of a double team between Austin Rivers and DeMarcus Cousins, with the latter trying to steal the ball from Harden. It was at that moment that the referee blew his whistle to stop play. However, both Harden and Cousins exchanged words.

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Unlike the ‘Beard’, who was heated in the verbal exchange, Cousins simply laughed in Harden’s face. As the rest of the members on the floor came in to separate the two stars, referee, Matt Boland, awarded technical fouls to both players.

Harden’s Run With the 76ers

As stated earlier, the Sixers have a strong 6-2 record whenever Harden has suited up for them. Apart from the game against the Brooklyn Nets, Harden’s numbers have been strong. In fact, Harden currently averages a double-double in points and assists for the 76ers.

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Even after the loss to the Nuggets, the Sixers still stand strong at the 3rd position in the East with a 41-26 record. As the playoffs come closer each day, the franchise only has 15 games to get as many wins as possible and hopefully improve their position in the conference. They will need both Harden and Embiid at their best, along with improved performances from Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris. Moreover, health will also be a major factor. It’s time to have all hands on deck for the Sixers as they push for the NBA title.