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The James Harden saga is the gift that keeps on giving. That gift happens to be a soap opera-like drama. Unfortunately for The Beard, however, the early returns aren’t ideal for his standing. From every angle, it looks like the 76ers were the ones to come out victors. But there is one key ingredient that has made the transition possible. And Kendrick Perkins is ready to crown the youngster. While usually boisterous, KP instead chose a rather demure approach this time around.

With a cleverly placed jab at Harden, Perkins made his stance on the matter clear. With the way things are moving in the two cities, it is hard to argue with?Big Perk’s assessment.?

Kendrick Perkins turns subtle

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With the team losing its primary ball-handler and the league leader in assists last season, there was valid skepticism about Philly’s chances. But, the team has had a response to every question. In the young season, they look like one of the best and most complete teams. And while reigning MVP Joel Embiid has been sensational, it is the meteoric jump from Tyrese Maxey that breeds optimism. Whether offense, defense, or playmaking, Maxey has shown improvement in every category.

USA Today via Reuters

Now, with the team missing its primary off-the-bench creator, there was a greater load on the team’s two stars. Even though Embiid put in a spectacular performance with 37 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists, tonight was all about Tyrese.

Watch This Story: Mavs Announcer Destroys James Harden, Giving Daryl Morey His Flowers

After a 25-point first half, Maxey would come back just as good in the second. With clutch scoring and even some timely blocks, Maxey was all over the court, dominating the Indiana Pacers on both ends. With a 50-piece to his name, en route to a career-high, the 23-year-old made believers out of many more fans.

Among them was Kendrick Perkins. Ready to give him the keys to the franchise, he took a direct shot at Harden and his earlier comments. “Maxey looking like a ?System? putting up a 50 piece with 3 waffles on the defensive side with a W!!! That young man is STANDING ON BUSINESS!!! Carry the hell on?”?

On one hand, is the exploding 76ers behind their superstar duo. On the other side of the spectrum, however, are the woes of the Los Angeles Clippers quartet.

The new-look Clippers with James Harden in jeopardy?

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Even though losing one of the greatest players and scorers of all time shouldn’t return a net equal value, the 76ers might have come close to it. While the trade package wasn’t anything spectacular, it is the trouble in the Clippers’ land that might make the 76ers joyous about their situation.

Despite losing the league leader in assists last season, Philly is coming along swimmingly. But, on the other hand, the situation in Los Angeles is dire. After 3 straight losses, the offense looks disjointed, with the defense not faring any better.

However, an easy matchup against the 1-8 Memphis Grizzlies was the perfect opportunity to turn things around. Unfortunately, all it did was give the team its most embarrassing defeat. Further, apart from Paul George, none of Kawhi Leonard, Russell Westbrook, or James Harden were able to thrive.

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With an air-ball in the clutch by Harden spelling disaster for the team, is the Harden era in Los Angeles already doomed? Do you think they can turn it around? Let us know in the comments below.

Read More: White Hot Tyrese Maxey Drops 50-Bomb as Joel Embiid Maintains MVP Display: 3 Takeaways From 76ers? Demolition of Pacers