“There’s been good days, there’s been bad days, but I keep coming back,” Kawhi Leonard announced his comeback yesterday with a cinematic clip, leaving fans in awe. Finally, the prolonged wait is over. But just as excitement builds, a pressing question emerges. The Clippers have already found a rhythm with their current roster under James Harden‘s leadership. Now, will Klaw’s sudden return throw that balance into chaos and shift the focus away from Harden? If nothing else, it will surely be a little different. Harden offered his honest take on the matter.

Following the 102-92 victory against the Warriors on Sunday night, Harden was asked about the situation in a post-game interview. The combo guard revealed, “Me and Kawhi talked about that a little bit on the bench today.” Having missed all 31 games this season, the 2-time All-Star is a bit hesitant to return. So Harden advised him, “Work your way.”

Explaining Kawhi’s reluctance, Harden said, “He feels like he don’t wanna just come over here and just mess up the flow and the chemistry that we have been, you know, been building up.” Despite knowing that he might have to make a sacrifice once Kawhi joins the squad, Harden believed, “I don’t think it’s gonna be a problem.“

Reflecting on his varied roles throughout his NBA career, the 10-time All-Star said, “I’ve been in every situation in the sense of, like, you know, being the main guy, having to, you know, take so I think for our aggressiveness and our team, we’re gonna still put it the same way.” Harden further went on to emphasize that Kawhi’s return would only strengthen their team. “It’s just we got another elite weapon on both ends of the floor. So, it’s definitely a bonus for us,” he added.

Kawhi Leonard was forced to leave the Clippers midway through the first round of the 2024 Playoffs against the Mavericks, playing only in Games 1 and 3 because of his right knee inflammation. The 33-year-old had previously undergone surgery on that knee in 2019. After missing four postseason games, Leonard prepared to join the USAB Team for the Summer Olympics but returned from training camp when it became clear he wasn’t fully fit.

Even ahead of this regular season, Kawhi had to step back for further rehabilitation. The Clippers too didn’t want to risk their star player’s health, especially with Paul George gone. In their absence, Harden took charge, leading the team with his averages of 21.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 8.1 assists.

Now, with Kawhi’s return, many speculated that there could be a clash of egos. However, Harden took no time in dismissing those narratives. He disclosed that both he and the Clippers are excited for Kawhi Leonard’s much-anticipated comeback.

James Harden shares excitement for Kawhi Leonard’s comeback

Kawhi Leonard hasn’t played an NBA game in 246 days, so fitting in could be a major concern. But Harden didn’t seem worried about that at all. When asked how the adjustment would go on Kawhi’s part, Harden confidently replied, “He’s a hooper. You know what I mean? He’s a hooper, so I think he’ll figure it out, and we’ll help him figure it out.” If the title of Teammate of the Year were decided now, it would undoubtedly go to Harden for that supportive statement. But his praise didn’t end there.

Harden also pointed out how Kawhi’s presence could benefit the team. “One thing about it is he’s, like, really elite on both ends of the ball. So, and when you’re with that special talent, you know, things come to you naturally. So for us, our defense has been unbelievable. He’s gonna add to that, and our offense is, definitely need a little help, and he’s gonna add to that as well. So overall, like, we’re excited,” the 35-year-old guard concluded.

Clippers head coach Ty Lue has been optimistic about Kawhi. But reports suggest that he will not join the team on their upcoming three-game road trip. Instead, Kawhi will ramp up his practice and is expected to rejoin the team soon after their return. Are you excited about Kawhi’s comeback too? Let us know what you think he’ll bring to the team!