“Offensively, I Played Like S**t” James Harden Reflects on Game 7 Struggles Despite Win Against OKC
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LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA – AUGUST 18: James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets drives to the basket against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 and Steven Adams #12 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at The Field House at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 18, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kim Klement – Pool/Getty Images)
James Harden and the Houston Rockets had to fight to the very last minute of this first-round series to put the Oklahoma City Thunder away. Even though the offense seemingly dried up, both teams defended like their lives were on the line. The most important defensive play came when James Harden blocked Luguentz Dort’s three-pointer with 2.7 seconds to go.
That block essentially sealed the game, as Dort had 30-points and was the most potent scoring threat for the Thunder. However, Harden’s contributions weren’t that impressive either. The scoring leader in the regular season for the past three years, Harden managed just 17 points on 26.7% shooting efficiency.
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However, Harden is a self-aware superstar. When asked about his struggles in the post-game interview, Harden responded honestly by saying “Offensively, I played like s**t, excuse my language.”
James Harden: "Offensively, I played like shit."
— Alykhan Bijani (@Rockets_Insider) September 3, 2020
James Harden to neutralize the LA Lakers?
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The Rockets have booked a berth to face the LA Lakers next round. The Lakers are off a comfortable 4-1 series win over the Portland Trailblazers. After a shock game one loss, the Lakers rebounded with four strong victories over the Blazers. A lot was made of the form of the Lakers, with them having especially bad shooting. The Rockets have already beaten the Lakers in the bubble, but that was before the team found a groove.
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Harden has to lead this team against the Lakers. Similar to what the Milwaukee Bucks are facing in the East with Miami, the Rockets are a team uniquely designed to beat the Lakers. However, the Lakers stifled the Trailblazers with some terrific perimeter defense, which could lock the Rockets up. However, the small-ball Rockets hold two wins over the LA Lakers across the regular season.
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Harden needs to up his defensive contribution, as the Lakers shooters struggle with on-ball pressure. They rely on LeBron for serving them open looks, so it will the guard like Westbrook and Harden that will have to step up defensively to force bad shots. The Lakers don’t have the snipers required for shot consistency. Harden disappointed today, but his clutch defense saved the game. Hopefully, he can be clutch for four games to upset the LA Lakers.
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