“Like a James Harden”: Gilbert Arenas Claims He’d Fair Well in Today’s NBA Because of a Peculiar Skill

Washington Wizards star Gilbert Arenas in his short-lived prime was one of the biggest stars in the NBA. The 6’4 guard was an elite scorer with shifty handles and good shooting ability. Some might think he was ahead of his time, as his style of play is a prerequisite for superstars in the NBA today. So, naturally when Arenas was asked on the latest episode of Gil’s Arena, “How do you feel like you would fare in today’s NBA?” he could not help but compare his skillset with 76ers guard James Harden.

Arenas explained how his unique frame and skillset could help him score a lot of points in the modern NBA.

Gilbert Arenas compares himself with James Harden and Dwyane Wade

Gilbert Arenas was known for his long-range shooting ability. But his unique talent of getting the defenders in foul trouble and earning points in the free-throw line would’ve helped him significantly today. “I also got to the free throw line like a James Harden, like Dwyane Wade,” he said comparing his ability to headhunt for defenders with ‘The Beard’.

Arenas shot 80 percent from the free throw line for his career. He believes the teams would not be able to play small ball with him because of his 6’4 200lbs frame and his ability to get to the rim. Arenas wondered what could have been, saying, “Damn, I wish I played in this era.”

Read More: Having Battled Homelessness with $30, Millionaire NBA Veteran Gilbert Arenas’ Undying Devotion Was Heavily Influenced by One Person

Arenas also touched upon how he would have fared in the 90s. With his versatile bag and scoring ability, he believes that he would’ve thrived in the era when was more space to work with.

Gilbert Arenas was a force to be reckoned with

Arenas was drafted 31st overall by the Warriors in the 2001 draft class, but he reached his peak as a Wizard after he proved his mettle by becoming an elite scorer. He became an all-star in his fourth year and helped the Wizards end their long playoff drought. His franchise-record 60 points in an overtime win over Kobe Bryant and the Lakers in 2006 still stands to this day.

However, his prime was shortened because of a torn meniscus in his left knee during the 2006-07 season. With lingering injuries, he never got back to becoming a 29-point-per-night scorer and eventually retired from the NBA in 2012.

Watch This Story: “Did James Harden Pack His Bags?”: Joel Embiid’s Celebration After Arsenal vs Manchester City Goes Horribly Wrong Among NBA Fans

Even if it was for a short period of time, Arenas was one of the top players in the NBA, and no one can question his talent. Fans can only wonder what would have happened if he had finished his career without the injuries or played in a different era altogether.