James Harden SLAMS 76ers for wasting two seasons of his career, sends warning to Clippers
James Harden alleges that his career was hindered for two years by the Philadelphia 76ers, citing their practice of keeping him on a leash during his time with the team.
James Harden (via Shams on X)
Former Philadelpia 76ers star James Harden will finally play basketball this season. The new direction came after his wish to join the Los Angeles Clippers became a reality. Harden will debut for the Clippers against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Monday.
During his conversation with the media in a Clippers jersey, Harden talked about his time in Philadelphia. Harden felt like he was put on a leash, inhibiting him from making the best use of his talents. This was an indirect critique of former 76ers coach Doc Rivers, who made Harden take on the role of primary playmaker rather than primary scorer. This is what Harden expressed:
When I'm on a leash, I'm not just shooting the basketball every time. I think the game and I'm a creator on the court.James Harden via Clippers’ introductory press-conference.
Harden also discussed the kind of coaching staff he would prefer to work with in the Clippers. The former MVP said he would like a staff that utilizes his talents to the fullest. This is what Harden said:
Someone who trusts and believes in me; I'm not a system player. I am a system. Someone who could engage in dialogue with me.
James Harden’s former teammate Joel Embiid disagrees with Harden’s assessment of his time in Philadelphia
James Harden got traded to the Los Angeles Clippers and said that he was put on a leash during his time with the 76ers. His former teammate Joel Embiid did not share the same opinion. In an interview after his game against the Toronto Raptors, Embiid said he disagreed with Harden’s assessment of his time with the team. According to Embiid, the 76ers gave Harden all the time and allowed him to do his thing.
This is what Embiid said:
I don't think so, I think he did a lot of great things for us. But in my opinion, we gave him the ball every single possession because he's really good. He's an amazing player. Obviously, being that great of a passer, I think we gave him the ball ... we'd give him the ball every single possession to just go out and, you know, do his thing.Joel Embiid via ESPN.
Joel Embiid and Harden as a duo could not go past the second round of the playoffs. Harden also wanted to receive a contract extension. However, it did not happen, and thus began attacking GM Darryl Morey. Eventually, Morey agreed to grant Harden his wish to join the Clippers.
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