The city of Philadelphia rose in joy as a partnership of dreams came into existence. The organization was able to pair up their face, Joel Embiid, with one of the most crafty scorers in the league, James Harden. As two MVP-caliber players took the same side of the court, their fans expected the duo to raise the team to new heights. However, the Philadelphia 76ers’ story remained the same. Yet another early playoff exit haunted Embiid’s men. And much of it was arguably due to Harden not being at his best. However, things seem to have changed since then.
The extended off-season gave Harden a chance to rejuvenate. Likewise, it was time to work. The Sixers guard made an incredible physical transformation, losing over 100 pounds. And with him back at full power, the dreams of Philadelphia fans have come alive once again.
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‘The Beard’ has certainly let his actions do the talking. Moreover, his confidence also seems to have picked up.
James Harden believes he is one of the most unselfish stars
In the past, James Harden showed the world just what he can do as a lone star. As the franchise cornerstone in Houston, the Beard went ballistic. Rivaling the number of Wilt Chamberlain, the 10-time All-Star was lethal. However, a nightly 30 points per game might not have been his most impressive skill after all.
His most deadly skill was arguably being able to co-exist with several of the top stars. Harden has adjusted every step of the way, playing with different icons at each stage of his career. Likewise, when speaking with SiriusXM, Harden didn’t hesitate to compliment his ability.
James Harden said: “I’m one of the most unselfish players probably that this league has ever saw”. However, the admission was seen as cocky by some of the NBA fanbases. And once again, Harden became a victim of trolls as they painted him to be a quitter.
Here are some of the reactions on NBA Twitter:
One of the best quitters in the league too.
— M Sports (@NGTRSLC4LIFE) September 30, 2022
what an unselfish thing to say 🤡 https://t.co/0kp4Wd6iZE
— Kampachi La Flare (@kampachilaflare) September 30, 2022
https://twitter.com/Virtill/status/1575698338321555456?s=20&t=94dWnc_5KtjJ6xH_NrqTwQ
Me when I'm lying https://t.co/v23I1w12g1
— 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐱𝐱 ㊗ (@lm_Prexx) September 30, 2022
https://twitter.com/DT1520/status/1575658998631890944?s=20&t=94dWnc_5KtjJ6xH_NrqTwQ
I feel like he aint talkin bout on the court here 😂😂 https://t.co/oaOxTToHaV
— AJ King (@allday__ajking) September 29, 2022
Harden lets the other 4 players get all the glory on the defensive end, what a guy https://t.co/YqWhv52aWf
— Killjoy 🤔 (@KilljoyGSW) September 29, 2022
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Despite recent struggles, Harden passed the test of loyalty with the Houston Rockets. However, as he became desperate to win a championship, his mindset changed, and Harden forced his way out and joined forces with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving at the Brooklyn Nets. One of the most deadly scoring trios, success was almost certain to cross their path. However, the dysfunctionality paved way for disappointment. In less than two seasons of assembling, Harden switched sides once again. This time he joined a heavy MVP favorite Joel Embiid.
Likewise, his jump in tough times has created a somewhat dent in his legacy. However, his moves for the Philadelphia 76ers’ truly brought out his unselfish nature. Notably, despite the major failures, James Harden took an enormous pay cut to give the franchise flexibility to sign new players. It seems only one thing is running on the former MVP’s mind, to be called an NBA champion. And his every move is seemingly dedicated to the ultimate goal.
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Now back in shape and ready to unleash, the duo of Joel Embiid and James Harden might bring havoc.
However, do you think the script will change? Let us know your views in the comments below.