The Los Angeles Clippers have been on a tear lately, and James Harden believes they have the potential to make a complete turnaround. After their 119-105 win over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night, Harden expressed his confidence in the team's ability to "come all the way back" into playoff contention. This is a significant statement, considering the Clippers were once near the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a dismal 6-21 record.
The Clippers' season has been marked by controversy and struggles, but they have managed to turn things around with 11 wins in their last 13 games, the best record in the NBA during that span. Harden attributes this success to the team's defensive improvements and their ability to "chip away" at their opponents. He also credits the team's confidence, which remained intact even during their tough times. "Some teams, when it gets that bad, they just let the wheels fall off," Harden said. "But we didn't let that happen, and now we're seeing the results."
Harden's partnership with Kawhi Leonard has been a key factor in the team's success. The two players have been communicating effectively, and their chemistry on the court is evident.
"We talk probably more than anybody,"Harden said of Leonard. "Once I see him flip the switch, it was like, 'OK, yeah, it's time to go.' That's the Kawhi we need. My job is just to facilitate, get him going, get us going." Leonard has been averaging 32.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.6 steals during the Clippers' 11-2 run, while Harden has been averaging 24.8 points and 7.8 assists.
Harden and Leonard are both strong candidates to be part of the All-Star Weekend on February 13-15 at the Intuit Dome. Harden recently passed Shaquille O'Neal for ninth on the NBA's all-time scoring list, a feat that holds special significance for him. "That was a surreal moment just because as a kid growing up watching Kobe [Bryant] and Shaq, the Lake Show, Robert Horry, Derek Fisher, Rick Fox, all those guys," Harden said. "To pass somebody who I really grew up watching, it's unreal for real."
The Clippers are currently a half-game behind the Memphis Grizzlies for 10th place and the final spot in the play-in tournament. While they still have a long way to go, Harden is optimistic about their chances.
Despite the team's early-season struggles, Harden has reaffirmed his commitment to the Clippers.
"It's hard to explain,"he said. "Being at home, that's like the opportunity of a lifetime for me. Just be able to hoop in front of my family, friends, people I grew up with, people that raised me. It's a different feeling." Harden's dedication to the team is evident, and he is determined to lead them to success. As he said, "I'm from L.A. and I'm blessed to be here."
The Clippers' journey is far from over, but with Harden and Leonard leading the charge, they have a good chance of making a deep playoff run. As the season progresses, it will be exciting to see how the team continues to evolve and improve. One thing is certain, however: the Clippers are a force to be reckoned with, and they will not go down without a fight.
Original: ESPN
Image: ESPN
Written by Npsports
