After watching both players up to this point. I have come to the conclusion that its not even close. George started off hot and I thought he would continue playing on that level but I was wrong. Harden has turned it up a few notches on both side of the court. He has that it factor as well as killer instinct.
Last 5 games for PG: 8-22 2-10 3-13 4-17 4-14 Shooting below 38% in March, and below 30% from distance. His shooting percentage in his last 3 months is just absolutely abysmal. He makes Monta Ellis look like James Harden.
I admit that before this season, I've rarely George play. So I didn't really comment on the comparisons before. Indy's in the east and I honestly never cared for the East. This year, I've watched some Indy games more closely and PG in particular. I find his offensive game very limited. In particular, he severely lack the all-important ability to drive to the rim that all great offensive players MUST possess. Whether it's lack of handles or explosiveness I don't know. Regardless, he just doesn't have it. He can come off screens and shoot jumpers, but against modern NBA defensive philosophies, that's not even a skill. Defenses freely give up that shot anyway. I still like Paul George as a 3rd guy on a championship team, but I must say the hype around him even in the offseason where he got the super-max was quite overboard. His offensive potential seems that of a Rip Hamilton at this point.
Call me crazy but I wouldn't trade Harden for even Lebron. Dude brought this team back from a **** hole.
Not crazy, I wouldn't either. Harden is an alpha dog who wants the pressure and expectations that come with it. LeBron wants the attention and accolades, and needs help carrying that weight.
I love Harden, but saying you would rather have him over LeBron.. Maybe, MAYBE, you could make the argument because he's a lot younger, but even then that's a big maybe. LeBron is a top 10 player of all-time.
Not taking anything away from LeBron, just personal preference. Magic Johnson was also great, but I'd rather ride with Jordan.
Only reason i'd personally really consider taking Harden over Lebron is age, and even with LBJ being 5 years older, if could do a straight up trade this offseason i'd probably stll go for Lebron.