The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Milwaukee Bucks, 127-117, on Saturday. The hero of the night was none other than James Harden, who led the Clippers to victory with an incredible 40-point performance. This win pushed the Clippers to a 26-19 record, placing them sixth in the West.
After the game, the Bucks star Damian Lillard took a moment to defend Harden’s legacy, calling out those who doubted the veteran guard. Although, Lillard was outspoken about the way some people, particularly those on social media and in the media, discredit players like Harden.
“I think the era we’re in right now you got people on the internet, in the media, and on TV that don’t watch games. They make it appear like guys can’t get it done anymore. And you see a guy like [Harden] come out and get 40,” Lillard said.
Damian Lillard:
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“I think the era we’re in right now, you got people on the internet, in the media and on TV that don’t watch games. They make it appear like guys can’t get it done anymore. And you see a guy like [Harden] come out and get 40… It’s a reason he’s one of the… pic.twitter.com/9IJpkpBn9k
“It’s a reason he’s one of the greatest players to play the game. You’ve got to respect it and just understand that he’s capable of having these types of games,” he added.
Harden finished the game with 40 points, five rebounds, nine assists, and four three-pointers. This marked his third 40-point game of the season and his 104th career 40-point game. So, to put that into perspective, no other active NBA player has more than 80 career 40-point games.
James Harden Declares Clippers One Of The Best Teams He’s Ever Played For
After the Clippers’ win, James Harden expressed his deep appreciation for his current team. Moreover, Harden confidently declared this Clippers squad as one of the best teams he has ever played for.
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“One of the best teams I’ve ever been on. From a comradery standpoint, to guys loving coming to work, enjoying each other, to on a court, playing as a team, as a unit,” Harden said.
Harden, one of the smartest NBA players in JJ Redick’s eyes, has shown his value to the team this year. So far this season, he’s averaging 21.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game.
