James Harden Given a $40 Million Reality Check by Agitated Shaquille O’Neal: “Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen Didn’t Have Games Off”
Follow Us
The trade of James Harden to the Philadelphia 76ers gave Philly fans plenty of hope. They were ecstatic at the fact that they finally had a superstar who could lead the team alongside Joel Embiid. And that’s exactly what the duo has done since Harden’s move. However, in Harden’s 6th game as a Sixer, his team and him were blown out. The Nets reigned superior as they blew past by 29 points.
Harden too had a poor performance scoring just 11 points. It was something unexpected from the superstar. This begs the question regarding how Harden and the 76ers will show up against the powerhouses of the league. Furthermore, can they beat the Nets, whom they are very likely to face in the playoffs?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY: 10 Times Charles Barkley Roasted NBA Players Like LeBron James, James Harden and More
Many people feel that Harden’s time to step up against these powerhouses is now. Moreover, he cannot be excused for his poor performance. And one such person who feels this way is Shaquille O’Neal.
Shaquille O’Neal on James Harden
Following the loss, Harden admitted to the no-show from the Sixers and mentioned to reporters that the loss was beneficial to keep them grounded. In light of this, Shaq added that Harden needs to ‘step up’ in big games and explained the importance of the matchup against the Nets.
Trending
“Biggest Fumble”: Kelsey Plum Flaunting Body in Kim Kardashian’s Skims Has Fans Questioning Ex-Hubby Darren Waller’s Divorce Decision
May 13, 2024 07:07 PM EDT
“Rest in Peace”: Isiah Thomas Mourns Devastating Demise of 6x Grammy Awardee After Long Cancer Battle
May 14, 2024 04:01 AM EDT
Mother of 5, Dwyane Wade’s Wife Gabrielle Admits Changing Herself Due to 3 Things
May 13, 2024 12:30 PM EDT
NBA Trade Rumors: 6’8 Superstar Urged To Ditch $208 Million To Return to Lakers Amid Klay Thompson Entice
May 12, 2024 10:33 PM EDT
Angel Reese Lures Michael Jordan to Do Something Which He has Never Done, Courtesy of Chicago Roots
May 06, 2024 07:43 AM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
“This is what we pay you for. $40 Million. Everybody’s been waiting for this game. This game had playoff implications. You’re going to have to beat them to get to the championship,” said Shaq on Harden.
“You wanted to be traded somewhere where you had the chance to win a championship. You got to show us now, you got to show Philly now,” added Shaq.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Furthermore, he added that Harden would have to perform at a high level regularly without taking any games off.
“You can’t have games off. Hakeem Olajuwon didn’t take games off. Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, didn’t take games off. Jordan, Scottie Pippen didn’t take games off,” he explained.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Clearly, Shaq believes that Harden’s time in Philly is now or never. He will have to prove his superstardom to the league on a regular basis to win the title. After all, that is why he is 76er today. The Sixers believe in Harden and it’s time for him to deliver.