Doc Rivers knew that James Harden came with some baggage when he was picked up by the Philadelphia 76ers on the 10th of February. While the baggage wasn’t necessarily controversy that had surrounded him- but his hamstring issue that had previously spoiled his time with the Brooklyn Nets.
Harden had initially missed the first four games with the new team after the trade due to his hamstring trouble- after which he finally made his debut on the 25th of February. Unfortunately, he isn’t up to his best- as he hasn’t had the signature Harden explosive scoring game yet.
Doc Rivers Believes Harden Isn’t Still There Yet
With the 76ers about to take on the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday, their coach Doc Rivers has provided an update into his injury through Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer. Rivers stated that Harden wasn’t yet up to the market. But as a saving grace, his miles per hour have increased dramatically. He is currently almost to the level of the Houston Rockets as far as his miles per hour are concerned. In around three weeks, he should be a completed project and ready to step on the field.
Harden’s stats have aligned with Doc Rivers’ analysis. He currently averages 22.5 points, 10.2 assists, and 7 rebounds while shooting around 42.5% from the floor and 33.3% from deep in 12 games that he has played for the Sixers. With just 10 games left before the NBA playoffs start, the team will be hoping that their star player gets healthy in order to secure a championship.
