Every time James Harden puts on a scoring clinic in an LA Clippers uniform, the fans and media begin to reminisce about the superstar he became as a Houston Rocket. That is how great he was, and, lucky for Clipper Nation worldwide, this season they have done a lot of reminiscing, as Harden is averaging over 26 points per game for the first time since 2020.
This feat is absurd for a 36-year-old, and he is simultaneously fifth in the league in assist average at 8.7 per game. These are the types of accomplishments he achieved for the Rockets, but on a much larger scale, resulting in MVP votes.
In 13 games for LA thus far, the former MVP has basically been carrying the Clippers every night. He is shooting the ball at a high volume, for example, 25 attempts in Monday night's loss versus the Philadelphia 76ers, yet he is not asked to, but told by Tyronn Lue, as LA will not even have a chance to win if he does not.
James Harden could come unexpectedly close to a significant Clippers franchise record
At precisely 26.2 points per game, with an average of 28.9 in the month of November, James Harden may work his way into the 30s for the LA Clippers. This would be historical, as the last time LA had someone end a regular season in such a fashion was back in the day during the 20th century.
Moreover, everyone is aware Harden can pull it off, and maybe even move Bob McAdoo's 1973-74 season to fourth. He most definitely remembers vividly how his younger self was scoring out of his mind, and even had stretches where he averaged a 50-point triple-double over 7-day periods.
However, Tyronn Lue should prioritize the idea of helping Harden so that he can be stopped from realizing that if 30 points are not on the board from his end, the Clippers will lose without a doubt.
Additionally, Kawhi Leonard's return is a glaring need. Overall, the Clippers miss him dearly, but Harden is one-hundred percent feeling his absence more than anyone, as the two-time champion's consistent 20-plus points turns the tide for the duo.
Nonetheless, the iconic season Harden is having right now should not be taken for granted. He deserves love from the NBA community and respect from executives who wield prominent voices in league-wide honors later in the year.