“Something to laugh about…” James Harden explains reason behind blocking teammate Kawhi Leonard’s shot

The Beard surely knows how to have fun in the middle of the game. 

“Something to laugh about…” James Harden explains reason behind blocking teammate Kawhi Leonard’s shot

James Harden and the Los Angeles Clippers squared off against the Portland Trailblazers on Wednesday. The Clippers have been struggling ever since the All-Star break.

The squad led by Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Harden was 6-8 following the All-Star break going into this game. They’re also 4th in the West, looking to establish their threat in the standings.

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While the last couple of weeks have been quite gloomy for the Clippers, there is no harm in having some fun in the middle of the game while winning. James Harden, the former MVP, decided to go for a light contest on Kawhi’s three-point attempt after passing him the ball.

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This happened during the third quarter of the game when the Clippers were up by 21. Following the much-needed win over the Blazers, Harden explained his fake contest to Kawhi.

I think this last few weeks has been a fall for us and I think every team goes through it. So I think just me, just trying to create great enery, create a great vibe for this team and... It would've been better if he made the shot but, give something to laugh about, know what I mean. Some excitement.
Said Harden

The contest was indeed a light one, though what Harden didn’t see was a defender coming right behind him. If Harden had not done the same, Kawhi would’ve been contested anyway.

James’ attempt would’ve definitely been better if the shot had been made. Interestingly enough, LeBron James did a similar thing four years ago, trying to block Rajon Rondo‘s layup for fun. 

James Harden has been the most productive Clipper

All the fun and excitement aside, the Clippers are in a tough spot in the West. The New Orleans Pelicans, right behind them, are in pursuit of the 4th seed, and so are the Sacramento Kings. The Clippers will have to maintain their spot in the West as they near the last 14 games of the season. 

On the other hand, Harden has been playing quite decently, being highly productive and efficient on the offensive end of the floor.

James is averaging 17.3 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.1 rebounds while shooting over 44% from the field and over 40% from deep. Harden is generating more production on the offense, playing alongside Leonard and PG13, who have also been the scoring leaders of the Clippers. If they do continue to find their rhythm, the squad will be the one to look out for in the postseason.

The Clippers were eliminated in the first round last year as the team struggled with injuries. In the absence of Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, Russell Westbrook managed all he could. However, this time, it is Brodie who is suffering from an injury to his left hand. 

Russ is expected to return before the start of the playoffs. Until then, the Clippers have to get as many wins as possible. They’ll be playing the Blazers on the road again on Friday. It will be interesting to see where the Clippers stand by the end of the season.

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