James ‘The Beard’ Harden has been a phenomenal playoff performer throughout his career. But since joining the Houston Rockets, he’s been a different beast.
Harden once again proved his worth for the franchise in Game 5 vs the Thunder. Harden recorded 31 points and rarely missed shots. He went 11-15 from the field while 4-8 from 3 points. Plus, Harden got this stat in just 28 minutes!
This is the first time in eight years that Harden has played less than 30 minutes in a playoff game since becoming a Rockets player. Behind Harden’s outstanding play, the Rockets recorded a 34-point W over OKC to take a 3-2 lead in the series.
Harden took his performance a few steps higher in Russell Westbrook’s absence. Brodie is still in restraints minutes after recovering from a strained right quad. But he can take his time to get back to his pace if Harden keeps his current form.
James Harden: a great performer of the playoffs
The Beard has never lost the NBA postseason in his career. The former MVP is getting better with each passing year. This year he averaged 31.8 points in the playoffs.
Additionally, Harden is always criticized for not being efficient with his score. He proved his critics wrong as he was shooting nearly 50% from the field in the first round series.
Prior to joining the Houston Rockets, James Harden was the third option behind Westbrook and Durant for OKC. Yet he showed signs of being a star. But OKC let him go to Houston, which brought about a change in Harden’s career.
If there’s one thing missing from Harden’s resume, it’s an NBA ring. With Russell Westbrook as a second option, this year may be his best chance, as the Rockets have a chance to take out the Thunder in Game 6.
However, the road to the finals will not be easy for Harden and the Rockets even if they beat OKC. In the second round they will have to face the Lakers or the Blazers.
As of now, the momentum is definitely in the Rockets’ favor, but if Thunder steals Game 6 from them, it will definitely make the series interesting.
