James Harden continues to get cocky as LA Clippers remain winless under former MVP
James Harden is still searching for his performance with the Los Angeles Clippers as the team remains winless in the games he has played in. The Clippers have struggled to find consistency when Harden is on the court, despite having a star-studded roster that includes Kohwai Leonard, Russell Westbrook and Paul George. Harden is averaging 13.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 1.5 steals per game for the Clippers, but he hasn't had much of an impact on the team's overall performance.
James Harden's much-anticipated arrival in Los Angeles failed to deliver a win for the Los Angeles Clippers. The team, which boasts star players such as Kohwai Leonard, Russell Westbrook and Paul George, stumbled out of the gate, losing all five games in which Harden played.
A former MVP and one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history, Harden is averaging just 13.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game for the Clippers. He also shot below his usual standards of efficiency, shooting just 38.3 percent from the field and 26.7 percent from three-point range.
Despite his struggles, Harden remains confident in his ability to turn things around. In a recent conversation with backup point guard Boones Hyland, Harden said he believes he's close to returning to his old form.
"I'm making shots. That's what I'm swinging at. Do you feel that? I've got to get the fundamentals back before I can get my swing ...... going. But I'll be fine," Harden told Hyland.
While Harden's confidence is admirable, the Clippers need him to translate his words into action on the court. Harden's lackluster presence on the roster has sparked concerns about his fit with the team's other stars.
Harden's struggles were especially evident in the fourth quarter. In five games against the Clippers, he has averaged just 2.2 points per game in the final quarter. The late-game slump was a major factor in the Clippers' loss.
Despite Harden's difficult situation, there are some positive signs. He showed his old self, especially in the recent game against the Denver Nuggets. In that game, Harden scored 21 points, including 11 in the third quarter.
However, Harden's performance against the Nuggets was a rare bright spot in a disappointing stretch for the Clippers. The 0-5 record for teams with Harden in the lineup is worrisome, and there's no guarantee he'll turn things around.
Harden will continue to find his confidence and the Clippers will continue to look for a new star player to win. If Harden can find his old form, the Clippers could be a dangerous team in the West. However, if he continues to struggle, the Clippers could be in for a long and frustrating season.
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