![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Doncic-Harden.jpeg?width=600)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Doncic-Harden.jpeg?width=600)
Despite the evolution of the NBA at a rapid pace, the fundamentals of the game of basketball remain unchanged. Thus, every once in a while, a player from the next generation may resemble the style of a player from the generation before. Luka Doncic and James Harden sparked similar discussions before a former Philadelphia 76ers player put an end to it.
The former shooting guard pointed out that Dallas Mavericks‘ Luka and James have notable 31 differences. He tried to imply that Doncic might not be another Harden.
Is there any comparison between James Harden and Luka Doncic?
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On the Point Forward podcast, the former Golden State Warriors player Andre Iguodala stated that Doncic resembles James Harden from the Houston Rockets days. The ex-76ers Evan Turner then quickly outlined notable 31 distinctions as to how Luka Doncic set himself apart from Harden. “Luka is 38, 9, and 8 in Game sevens. ‘Fly Guy’ James Harden is 7, 7, and 6,” Evan said, implying how James often found it difficult to find his feet in clutch games.
“The difference between James (Harden) and Luka: Luka is 38-9-8 in game sevens, James Harden is 7-7-6” -Evan Turner on the Luka/Harden comparisons pic.twitter.com/buhMtgfpXz
— Jo (@MavsStan41) August 10, 2023
“That is very valid,” Andre agreed. This interaction showcased one flaw to Harden’s game, which was his inability to come up with his best in crucial moments. Luka, on the other hand, has been phenomenal during clutch moments, separating himself from Harden.
Despite this, Andre and Evan both defended Harden’s playing style. Andre particularly highlighted how The Beard used to be singled out for his way of getting buckets, even in his prime years. His methods earned him the league’s MVP in 2018, but the stigma never faded away.
Can Harden move past this?
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James has been unable to shake off the talks against his playoff form even now. With his current team 76ers, he failed again last season in the conference semifinals. Most of the fingers were pointed toward Harden, as he was blamed for their defeat to the Boston Celtics.
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago1024146278h.jpg?width=150&blur=15)
via Imago
NBA, Basketball Herren, USA New York Knicks at Philadelphia 76ers Feb 10, 2023 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden 1 reacts after hitting his head on the floor against the New York Knicks during the third quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Philadelphia Wells Fargo Center Pennsylvania USA, Copyright: xEricxHartlinex 20230210
Currently, his future with the 76ers remains unresolved. With Harden heading in a trade request, the Los Angeles Clippers are interested in him, as reported by Sports Illustrated. It would be interesting to see what the future holds for him.
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With the entire narrative spinning around player comparison, Harden has little to take responsibility for. As a fierce competitor, he would be looking to retire with a championship. But for that, he would need to improve his postseason form. Can he do it? Let us know in the comments.