The Clippers sit fifth in the Western Conference standings, having won three games from five games. The Clippers have dominated their opponents in their home games, winning all three games. But their away trips haven’t been fruitful, as they have lost both their away games. The acquisition of James Harden would surely help the Clippers win more regular season games. However, there are significant question marks regarding his commitment, as Harden has requested a trade three times in the past four years.

Harden will reportedly make his debut against the New York Knicks in a packed Madison Square Garden. But, coach Ty Lue has remained coy about Harden’s debut.

Will Harden Start against the Knicks?

The Los Angeles Clippers traded for James Harden in the early hours of 31st October, bringing an end to the drawn-out saga. Harden provides further firepower to a team already filled with stars like Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and Russell Westbrook. The Clippers started the season with inconsistency, as they won three games and lost two. However, the addition of Harden may improve things. Harden’s arrival addresses the Clippers’ need for playmaking, which has been a notable deficiency since acquiring Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.

The Clippers face the Knicks at Madison Square Garden in what could be Harden’s debut game. However, Coach Ty Lue has remained tight lipped about the possibility of Harden starting the game with his superstar teammates. Harden’s first press conference as a Clippers player has raised some eyebrows, as Harden said, “(I need) somebody that trusts me, that believes in me, that understands me, that I’m not a system player, I’m a system”. His comments have raised concerns about the Clippers chemistry with Harden in the lineup.

The Harden System in Houston

James Harden’s tenure with the Houston Rockets, which spanned from 2012 to 2021, was marked by his transformation into one of the NBA’s most prolific scorers and playmakers. He became the focal point of the Rockets’ offense, utilizing an isolation-heavy style that led to high-scoring performances. Harden was a perennial All-Star and won the NBA MVP award in 2018.

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However, his time in Houston was also characterized by playoff disappointments, as the team couldn’t secure an NBA championship. Off the court, Harden was involved in various philanthropic endeavors in the Houston community. Despite his individual success, his trade to the Brooklyn Nets marked the end of an era for the Rockets. Now with the Clippers, Harden is yet to win an NBA title. Can he cap off a brilliant NBA career with an NBA title? Let us know in the comments below!

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