James Harden has been criticized often this season for playing at a level that people don’t expect from him. Before Wednesday’s game against the New York Knicks, Harden was averaging 15.3 points per game on 36.4% from the field.
Thankfully for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Harden played like his usual self with a 32-point game against the Knicks on Wednesday. It was a phenomenal performance that turned back the clock for Harden, which led to them getting the big victory.
James Harden makes an honest admission about struggling to start the year
Harden has been one of the league’s best players over the past decade. However, Father Time is a legitimate obstacle for almost any athlete who is in their mid-to-late 30s. Harden has been excellent for a long time, but it is clear that he is a step slower.
On Wednesday, it was clear that Harden was motivated to prove the doubters wrong. He was being criticized all over the place after the Cavs‘ loss to the Charlotte Hornets earlier in the week.
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Harden performed extremely well on Wednesday, which is a fantastic response to all the talk about him. He is one of the first ones to admit that he has been struggling, and he said so after winning against the Knicks.
“We’re in a great direction. It’s only a matter of time I get in the rhythm. Year 18, it’s taking me longer than usual. Couple of losses we should’ve won, but we’re in a good spot. Trying to peak at the right time,” Harden said after beating the Knicks on Wednesday.
Cavs fans will be hoping that this is a good sign for the future. If Harden has found his form, the Cavaliers are an entirely different team. Getting an in-form Harden alongside the rest of the Cavaliers playing better could lead them back to the top of the Eastern Conference.
