Scoring points in the NBA is nothing short of an art. While several players possess the skill, only some master it. Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant were two such NBA greats who became pioneers at the art of NBA offense. However, a former NBA MVP gave the Philadelphia 76ers guard, James Harden the edge over these phenomenal offensive talents.

James Harden has been among rampant trade rumors lately. After he opted out of his player option with the Sixers, the 33-year-old has become the centre of attraction. This is nothing new for The Beard, considering his history with trade requests. In his 14 year career in the NBA, the 2018 NBA MVP has faced abundant criticism coming his way. This year, he was not spared by an NBA legend too, who urged the Sixers to trade Harden. But the veteran once hailed him as the best offensive player.

When James Harden got the edge over Jordan and Bryant

James Harden made headlines this offseason when he asked out of Philadelphia. His decision came after the Sixers failed to clear the second round, yet again in his two year stint with the franchise. However, before Harden requested a trade, former NBA MVP, Charles Barkley urged the Sixers to trade the 33 year old. Interestingly, just two years prior to this, Barkley was hailing Harden as a better scorer than His Airness, Michael Jordan and the late Kobe Bryant.

In his prime, James Harden had the world in disbelief of his scoring ability. The 10 time All Star has showed his incredible scoring prowess, winning three scoring titles in a row. Two years ago, Harden was still in his prime, leading the Brooklyn Nets’ “Big Three”, Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. This was the time when Barkley decided to name Harden as the “best offensive player”.

In an interview with ESPN two years ago, Barkley was asked his opinion on James Harden. “This guy might be the best basketball player in the world,” he said, in response. “I’ve always thought he was the best offensive player, he wasn’t as great as Michael and Kobe….he’s the best offensive player I’ve ever seen.”

Her later justified his statements, explaining why he gave Harden the edge. “He is the most awesome offensive player I’ve ever seen. Listen, Michael and Kobe were better players from a guard standpoint, but as far as offensively, they couldn’t shoot threes like him….he is an offensive machine, plain and simple.”

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Barkley had his say about Harden’s scoring but how far can it be justified?

The Beard is truly a gifted scorer

James Harden might have drawn comparisons to two of the greatest scorers of all time, but his scoring ability is nothing short of legendary. Harden may seem like a playmaking point guard nowadays, but the 1o time All Star was no joke as a scorer in his prime. The NBA Top 75 list member had one of the most spectacular prime years in the NBA, becoming an absolute force as a scorer.

Three pointers have become the primary option for scoring in the contemporary NBA offense. In this offensive structure, to dominate the scoring from beyond the arc while also being a frequent visitor to the free throw line is an absolute art. James Harden not only ranks third all time in three pointers made but also ranks sixth all time in free throws made. His remarkable scoring ability has earned him three scoring titles, beating Bryant’s two. Jordan, however, has the record, 10 scoring titles.

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Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant might be an elite class to compare James Harden, but The Beard‘s resume as a scorer cannot be overlooked. Barkley may feel that Harden needs to be traded now but two years ago, he seemed to be in awe of him.