James Harden, the star player for the Los Angeles Clippers, has confidently said that he is one of the players the NBA had to adjust to. He feels this way because of his unique playing style and the influence he has had on the game. Harden’s approach to basketball is different from many others. His skills and techniques have made a significant impact on the league.
During a Clippers practice, Harden told reporters, “I’m one of the people the NBA had to adjust to. Just being in here, being crafty, working on it, loving it.”
Since James Harden’s rookie season in 2009-10, the NBA has become much faster. Back then, teams averaged 92.7 possessions per game, but last season, that number rose to 98.5. Harden has been a major scorer and playmaker, pushing the league to adapt to his style of play.
From 2012 to 2020, he averaged 29.6 points, 7.7 assists, and 6.0 rebounds per game while with the Houston Rockets. His scoring was so impressive that he won the MVP award in 2018, averaging 30.4 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.4 rebounds. His coach at the time, Mike D’Antoni, changed the Rockets’ offense to fit Harden’s style.
How Exactly Did The NBA Adjust To James Harden’s Playing Style?
The NBA did adjust to Harden, but not in the expected manner. In 2021, the league introduced new rules to limit foul baiting, which many often linked to Harden’s playing style. The NBA decided that intentional contact by the offensive player during a shooting motion would not count as a foul.
Before this rule, James Harden averaged 24.6 points, 10.8 assists, and 7.9 rebounds with the Nets. After the rule change, his scoring has dropped, and he has taken on more of a playmaker role. Last season, he averaged just 16.6 points, 8.5 assists, and 5.1 rebounds, partly because he was sharing the ball with stars like Paul George and Kawhi Leonard.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
Now at 35, fans expect Harden to score more this season, especially with George leaving the team and Leonard dealing with injuries. The Clippers will start the season on October 23 at home against the Phoenix Suns, which will also mark the opening of their new arena, the Intuit Dome.
James Harden has also taken on a leadership role, acting as a “coach on the court” for younger players. He understands the challenges in his quest for an NBA championship and remains determined to achieve this goal with the Clippers. This season may be one of his last chances to win a title, adding urgency to his efforts.
Also Read: James Harden’s Car Collection: A Look At Los Angeles Clippers Star’s $842K Garage
