The Cleveland Cavaliers got their first glimpse of the playoff version of James Harden, and based on what was seen, they’re probably wondering where the criticism comes from. He recorded 22 points, 10 assists, and 2 steals against the Toronto Raptors and, most importantly, won.
However, the LA Clippers, and honestly, each of Harden’s previous teams, are just waiting for the Cavaliers to realize that he is not built for the playoffs. It’s an annual trend, and fans of the Clippers know Cleveland is not safe, as fatigue, pressure, and a lack of aggression come into play.
So, until then, the Cavaliers must enjoy the ride. Harden is undeniably among the best of the best when his foot is on the gas. At the same time, they should also brace themselves for what’s about to come, because it’s not an appealing sight at all.
Clippers fans have seen the same exact story before
Overall, fans of the LA Clippers can agree that James Harden had a great outing in Game 1 against the Toronto Raptors. He had the Cleveland Cavaliers’ big men involved from start to finish, and in between focusing solely on making plays, the former MVP got some buckets as well.
Harden was also efficient from beyond the arc, draining four three-pointers on seven tries, which deserves props; he played more than well.
But, to Clippers fans, the story of Harden dominating at the start of a series sounds extremely familiar.
Why? Well, the same exact timeline took place last season in Denver. In game one, Harden had 32 points, 11 assists, and six boards, shooting 50.0% from the floor, 44.4% from three, and 100% from the charity stripe.
Everyone in LA was stunned to their core, thinking the playoff narratives had officially been quieted. Â
Unfortunately, Clipper Nation had gotten far ahead of itself, as Harden fell down a slippery slope thereafter. For the next four games, he averaged 16 points, eight assists, and 5.2 rebounds, on shooting splits of 41.1% from the floor and 34.7% from a distance.
He did play better in game six, just to collapse for an all-time low in game seven, where he logged a measly seven points on eight attempts.
So, with Cleveland possibly getting carried away, the Clippers are staying patient, with their feet kicked up, for Harden to be exposed on the biggest stage exactly how it’s happened in the past.
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