George Harris
Nov 11, 2023 - 10:10

Stephen A. Smith warns Clippers of ego clashes with James Harden on roster

Stephen A. Smith doubts LA Clippers' acquisition of James Harden as team struggles to find rhythm after blockbuster trade.

Stephen A. Smith has expressed skepticism about the LA Clippers' decision to acquire James Harden, the former MVP. Despite the blockbuster trade that brought Harden to the Clippers from the Philadelphia 76ers, the team has faced challenges in finding their rhythm and integrating him into their lineup alongside Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. The Clippers have struggled since acquiring Harden, going 0-3 with him on the court.

Following a 144-126 loss to the Dallas Mavericks, questions about the fit of the Clippers' new lineup have resurfaced. While Kawhi Leonard appears unfazed, Stephen A. Smith has voiced his doubts about the team's ability to make it work. He believes that bringing Harden to LA as a safety net in case of injuries to Leonard or George may not be the best move, as he anticipates that egos will get in the way.

The Clippers currently sit in 11th place in the competitive Western Conference with a 3-5 record. The addition of James Harden was expected to provide insurance in case of injuries to Leonard or George, but the team has experienced growing pains in adjusting to the new lineup.

In their first game together, the Clippers fell to the New York Knicks, with Harden scoring 17 points and adding six assists. Two days later, they faced the Brooklyn Nets and suffered a 100-93 defeat, with Harden contributing 12 points, five assists, and eight rebounds. In their most recent game, Harden posted 14 points, two assists, and five rebounds, marking a decrease in his assists compared to his previous seasons.

Despite the challenges, Kawhi Leonard remains confident that the team will eventually find its stride. He believes that it's only a matter of time before they learn to play together effectively.

As the Clippers prepare for an upcoming game against the Memphis Grizzlies, the team faces an adjustment period as they work to integrate James Harden into their lineup. It remains to be seen how long it will take for the team to overcome their current struggles and reach their full potential.