look how gimpy harden's first step is.. im not using it as an excuse for his lack of defense, but his ankle is clearly bothering him.
^that's right, but in my opinion Effort is his #1 problem, plays lazy defense (not moving his feet, reaching with his hand). Lets a 33 year old steve blake blow past him a few times, that's unacceptable at even high school level. Harden's trying to get bailed out by reaching in, and hoping Asik, Howard would switch over. On his offense, Harden is arguably the best 1v1 player at SG. People say Harden is a "willing" passer (even Cylde Drexler) Harden has great court vision and a good passer, but from what i see in his career so far, he is NOT a "willing" passer. Harden needs to make some sacrifice for the better on the "team". Back in 2012 playoffs watching OKC playoffs games, my mother said Harden is more selfish than Westbrook, and I started noticing it after that. Harden may be one of the most selfish player in the league in my honest opinion. I might sound like a hater but I just want Harden to play to his best for the Rockets to succeed. I've been saying this since last season, when he trusts his teammates and stop trying to be all HERO, he will be a much better player. He's the leader of the team, LEAD BY EXAMPLE.
If we get down to defending a last-second in-bounds play again, why not trot a defensive lineup of Bev, Lin, Brewer, Parsons, and Dwight out there?
LoL. That is just funny and ridiculous at the same time. He will never be Elite with effort like that. Heck if we are going to just have someone that all they do is shoot, then I would rather have Melo. At least he gives a little effort on D.
Have you ever seen a guy play hurt when they make a bad play or miss an assignment, but they are all better when they get the ball in their hands? If not, you have now.
I think Harden is trying to get Mchale replaced. Just look at this sequence down the stretch last night: <iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/-c9dClaPKgk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> Harden totally ignored the play that the coach wanted to run. I've lost some respect for Harden. Even if he doesn't want Mchale as his coach, he shouldn't quit on his teammates like that. How can you build chemistry with the guys on the floor with you if you do something like that?
Harden is a negative on defense and cannot be a top 10 player without playing average defense. Doesn't help when you have a coach who is incompetent and clueless.
You think that would sit well with Harden? I'm all for it, but don't think McHale has the balls to do it. Imagine Phil Jackson sitting Kobe on a crucial play, or Jordan, for that matter. Superstars aren't superstars unless they play D.
Harden is fully capable, he can make steals, block shots, stay with him man, close and challenge the outside 3. ONLY when he is willing to do those, and it is like 30% chance....
