LA Clippers’ Surprising Turnaround: James Harden Leads the Charge
INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Less than a month ago, James Harden and the LA Clippers were near the bottom of the Western Conference standings with very little to feel optimistic about. However, after their fourth win in a row, 119-105 over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night at the Intuit Dome, and their 11th win in their past 13 games — the best record in the NBA during that span — Harden told ESPN he thinks the Clippers could “come all the way back.”
This impressive turnaround is a testament to the team’s resilience and determination. According to NBA.com, the Clippers have shown significant improvement in their defensive strategy, which has been a crucial factor in their recent success. As Harden noted, “I think finding little tweaks and being a lot better defensively is what really helped us out.” This adjustment has allowed the team to build momentum and climb the standings.
A Long Way to Go, But Optimism is High
The Clippers are currently a half-game behind the Memphis Grizzlies for 10th place and the final spot in the play-in tournament. While there is still a long way to go, the team’s recent performance has sparked optimism among fans and players alike. As Harden stated, “We can come all the way back, but we have to chip away, chip away and really build some momentum going into the All-Star break.” This mindset is echoed by his teammate, Kawhi Leonard, who has been instrumental in the team’s resurgence.
Leonard is averaging 32.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.6 steals during this 11-2 run, while Harden is averaging 24.8 points and 7.8 assists. Their combined efforts have made them strong candidates for All-Star Weekend on Feb. 13-15 at the Intuit Dome. As Harden mentioned, “We talk probably more than anybody,” and their on-court chemistry has been a key factor in the team’s success. “Once I see him flip the switch, it was like, ‘OK, yeah, it’s time to go.’ That’s the Kawhi we need. My job is just facilitate, get him going, get us going. So it’s just been a complete 180.”
A Special Accomplishment for James Harden
Harden recently passed Shaquille O’Neal for ninth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, a special accomplishment for a player who grew up in Los Angeles watching O’Neal win championships with the Los Angeles Lakers. As Harden reflected, “That was a surreal moment just because as a kid growing up watching Kobe [Bryant] and Shaq, the Lake Show, Robert Horry, Derek Fisher, Rick Fox, all those guys. To pass somebody who I really grew up watching, it’s unreal for real.” This achievement is a testament to Harden’s hard work and dedication to the sport.
As for his own time in Los Angeles, Harden seemed to dispel any notion that he’d want to leave his hometown amid the Clippers’ early-season struggles. “It’s hard to explain,” Harden said. “Being at home, that’s like the opportunity of a lifetime for me. Just be able to hoop in front of my family, friends, people I grew up with, people that raised me. It’s a different feeling. So as much as people talk all the time. That’s social media, that’s what people’s jobs are to talk. For me, it’s just like I’m actually living in it so I can’t get caught up in what people talk about, how people feel, whatever the case.” As he emphasized, “I’m from L.A. and I’m blessed to be here.”
With their recent winning streak and improved defensive strategy, the LA Clippers are poised to make a push for the playoffs. As the season progresses, fans can expect to see more exciting performances from Harden, Leonard, and the rest of the team. As ESPN reported, the Clippers’ turnaround is one of the most impressive in the league, and their chances of making a deep playoff run are increasing with each win.
