As one of the few teams in the NBA with a hybrid point guard, the LA Clippers are fortunate to have an advantage with James Harden, who is just as good of a playmaker as he is a scorer. The defense never knows what to expect from Harden, given that the former MVP can randomly go from drilling a step-back three and executing a four-point play to changing his pace, faking aggression, and finding his big man under the rim.
Harden’s skillset on the hardwood, of course, makes him unique, and the Clippers one of the best teams in the NBA. Thus, he led a squad that was struggling in a weighty manner after the trade deadline to a 50-win season.
Yet, what separates Harden from the typical dual-threat guard is that he is willing to make adjustments, even if it causes initial discomfort. He wholeheartedly trusts the coaching staff, primarily Tyronn Lue, and will accept reasonable changes without letting his ego, which many falsely believe exists, interfere with his ability to win at the highest level.
Furthermore, experimentation is inevitable for Lue every season, but next season there will be more than usual, as the Clippers will have finalized a three-time All-Star, Bradley Beal, into their starting lineup.
This could result in a decrease in points per game for Harden, as Beal has an All-NBA-level scoring season on his resume. However, the 11-time All-Star may welcome it, leading to the unlocked version of the Clippers that will take over the Western Conference.
James Harden allowing Bradley Beal to be “the scorer” will transform the LA Clippers next season
Although they are not employed by the teams most remember them for, the Houston Rockets and Washington Wizards, James Harden and Bradley Beal have the secret formula to averaging over 30 points, cementing them as generationally gifted shooting guards.
However, Harden has won multiple scoring championships and remains an elite passer. This is where Lue will play in correspondence to their different strengths, leading The Beard to be informed and facilitating for Beal, rather than trying to play savior in pivotal moments.
This will be the perfect opportunity for Harden to showcase his selflessness, a significant trait for a top option, as he will not mind Beal taking on the scoring responsibilities.
In fact, Harden may be fond of Beal being occasionally ranked ahead by Lue as a bucket-getter, as he wants to win with pride as the best teammate to his surroundings, and nothing else.