Harden can play solid defense when he puts his mind to it. But since he has to exert so much energy on offense, he tends to take a lot of plays off on defense. His mindset might be , " I will get that bucket back on offense". I don't know about you good peeps but I have seen players like Tracy McGrady, Mitch Richmond, Kobe Bryant, Penny Hardway and several others take plays off on defense. Lol but no as much as Harden though.
"I spoke to several members of the USAB staff, and behind the scenes they were amazed at how good Harden has become as an overall player since his last tour with Team USA two years ago. The fact that he came in and was focused on being a lockdown defender blew them away. When he wants to play defense, Harden is very capable. We already know he is one of the premier offensive players in the game. I love him as a player (I have always loved lefties) for his unorthodox moves in the open court that allow him to get to the rim, and also knowing how to draw fouls. But now I am being told Harden is getting it done on the other end, which has always been the major complaint about his game." http://www.sheridanhoops.com/2014/08/02/gonzo-leaving-las-vegas-three-things-you-didnt-know-about-team-usa/
The US team don't hold anyone accountable. If you don't hold yourself accountable, they just find someone else.
ITS THE LACK OF ACCOUNTABILITY...just look what a little coaching and direction does for James...suddenly he's in the right position, he's playing with effort...etc...Furthermore, Harden has inherent risk of not being a starter in team USA bball...because there are other superstars on the team. Therefore bringing out the best offensively and defensively. Anytime you play against better competition, you play harder and with more focus. Perhaps he is embracing the role of a leader...and time will tell how he applies it for our Rockets.
I'm seriously starting to worry that the dude simply isn't very bright. Being confounded by offensive sets and losing his man over and over is merely the flip side of the coin for why he holds or pounds the ball on offense and can't make quick reads and take decisive actions. How much is that on coaching, and how much of that is on him? I guess we'll see this year.
