“When the Clippers got James Harden, I knew Paul George would be out of there. I mean 1+1 = 2.” These were the bold words of Patrick Beverly, who saw the writing on the wall the moment James Harden re-signed. Beverly firmly believed that George’s departure was inevitable due to this move. Having two stars of the same height and position was bound to cause issues for 9x NBA All-Star Paul George. So, when the 76ers offered him a $212 million contract, he packed his bags and moved on. But was Harden really to blame for this sudden exit? Perhaps not entirely. With George gone, the path is clear for the 35-year-old Harden, who seems to have something big brewing in his mind.

A revamped LA Clippers might not produce at a high level overnight. However, with legendary coach Ty Lue and players like James Harden and Ivica Zubac, the team will soon find its ground. With that said, The Beard is preparing himself to make a significant contribution to the Clippers. After averaging 16.6 points per game, the NBA star wants to step up. To be more precise, James Harden wants to go back to his old ways of being aggressive with the ball.

Insider Brian Windhorst analyzed the Clippers’ media day conversation on The Hoop Collective. He also covered the topic of James Harden’s interview that exposed his desires for the upcoming. The members of the panel said: “James Harden perhaps will be more comfortable in this type of role than he was with Paul George and Russ and Kawhi and trying to fit in.” Paul George and Russell Westbrook have already left the team. Other than that, Kawhi Leonard‘s knee injury is most likely to plague him throughout the season. This means, James Harden will take center stage and manipulate the ball at his will, like he used to do.

“Like last year he looked very uncomfortable trying to catch and shoot open-wide 3s. It looked like he was trying to break a habit for 10 years of basically creating his own shot. He gets to go back to that and a ton of pay and roll,” the experts stated. In reality, even Harden had claimed that the last season was difficult for him. Therefore he seeks redemption and maybe with Paul George‘s exit, the doors will open for the point guard. Paul George’s last season was brilliant where he averaged 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists. Meanwhile, Harden’s stats showed he averaged  21.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 8 assists while shooting 45% from the field.

James Harden is a proven important piece for the Clippers. So, in the absence of PG, he will help the team by going back to his old self to control the ball like never before and put them on a higher pedestal. And well, there’s only one person’s words keep turning into reality and that is Harden’s.

A new “aggressive” role for James Harden with the Clippers

James Harden: “Last year, we tried to figure it out, with guys and their roles … It was pretty difficult. This year for me, I’ve got a clear space in what I need to be doing.” The 35-year-old candidly informed the world about his upcoming gameplay on media day. With Paul George no longer on the team, Harden feels there’s a clear opportunity for him to take charge. Acknowledging his last season’s struggles, the 10x NBA All-Star wants to redefine the game in his way.

Harden’s increased offensive responsibility comes as the Clippers have fewer scoring options. While Kawhi Leonard remains a key player, his injury history raises concerns. Though no longer at his peak, James Harden will likely play a bigger role in carrying the offensive load this season. The Clippers face the challenge of adjusting to this revamped roster. Ty Lue, while a skilled coach, must balance egos and integrate new players effectively.

James Harden’s aggressive mindset could help the team, but it’s not a guaranteed solution to all their problems. A better strategy and an even-promising roster are needed. Despite a renovated LA Clippers, skepticism isn’t leaving their side. Can Harden’s new era truly change the team for the good? Or will they feel the absence of Paul George in every step they take?