It goes without saying that some of the biggest adjustments the LA Clippers have had to make this season involve James Harden. Incorporating him into the offense while making sure they are still maximizing the production of their other players has been one of Head Coach Tyronn Lue's most significant challenges.
Figuring out how to use Russell Westbrook along with James Harden has been puzzling, but some of that problem was made easier with Westbrook volunteering to come off the bench. Since that happened, the two star guards have been sharing the floor less and less.
After Wednesday's win over the Nuggets, Ty Lue explained that keeping the two apart will be his plan going forward.
Tyronn Lue on keeping Russell Westbrook and James Harden separated:
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) December 7, 2023
“That's the plan, but you never know. The game dictates kind of who plays & what unit plays with who, but we try to have our rotations going into the game.”pic.twitter.com/L7d2SdNXtW
Ty Lue plans to play Westbrook and Harden separately
This idea had already begun to materialize in recent days, with Harden and Westbrook sharing the court for just five minutes of game action on Saturday against the Warriors. But Wednesday night against the Nuggets marked the first game this season where playing time did not overlap for those two at all.
In discussing his new plan, Lue acknowledged that things may change. But for now, he sees it best for the top two point guards on his roster to operate separately rather than together. After the Clippers' huge win over the defending champions, it is hard to argue with the results thus far.
This new wrinkle could end up being just what LA needs to finally get the most out of their star-studded roster.