As they ride the waves of NBA strategizing drama, the Clippers are a successful boat that talented Paul George and Kawhi Leonard have been sailing with their skillful performances. And then there’s James Harden too. The team is riding high after a recent win against the Memphis Grizzlies, where George tallied a season-high 37 points. Meanwhile, Leonard has signed off on a three-year contract extension.
Amidst all this, James Harden shared his views on the camaraderie of the Clippers. Harden’s reaction to Kawhi Leonard’s contract extension reflects both personal satisfaction and a sense of team unity.
“Of course, you’d love to see guys get paid, you know, especially like you saw somebody that deserves it like Kawhi and then obviously PG, you know, as well, hopefully in the near future.” He went on to admit: “For me… I’m just trying to have fun… I’m home, having fun hooping… I’m in my safe space.”
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James Harden says he is happy for Kawhi getting his new deal, says hopefully Paul George is next soon, and that he is simply happy to be playing at home right now and not worried about more than the big goal. Control what you can control.
“I’m in my safe space.” pic.twitter.com/EZrEe16Jsw
— Law Murray 🧽 (@LawMurrayTheNU) January 13, 2024
In Philadelphia, James Harden’s partnership with Joel Embiid held immense promise, but the duo fell short of playoff success. The disappointment reached its peak when the Sixers opted not to offer Harden a new contract, signaling a crossroads in his career.
Read More: “Never Lost the Sight”: Paul George on Clippers’ Early Struggle With James Harden
The demand for trade that came after was a big swing; detractors raised again whether the former MVP had become past his prime and one who plays subpar, which only added to the story that he had entered decline.
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James Harden’s redemption odyssey with the Clippers
However, adversity became a catalyst for transformation. As the Clippers gradually evolved into legitimate championship contenders, James Harden’s role shifted from that of a perceived antagonist to a key player contributing to the team’s success. The narrative about Harden began to change and as the condition of the Clippers improved, the criticism that surrounded him lessened. In an interview with Fox Sports last week, Harden made it unmistakable that he’s excited to ditch the ‘villain’ identity, showing signs of wanting to bury the past and focus on positive developments in the team’s current situation.
As the Clippers are causing waves in the league, the story of James Harden’s recovery takes place on the court. The former pariah player is now an integral component of a team, one with legitimate championship hopes, proving again that success is the only real answer to doubt and criticism.
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Harden displays resilience, determination, and a dedication to proving his value on the big show of the NBA as he charts his course from trade demands and becoming labeled a villain to being an integral part of a squad that is in contention for honors.