Clippers star James Harden closing in on Scottie Pippen’s milestone ahead of NBA playoffs

If there’s one team determined to secure a spot in the NBA playoffs this season, it’s the Los Angeles Clippers. Led by James Harden, the franchise is aiming to contend for the title in the final stretch of the campaign. With key players like Kawhi Leonard, Ivica Zubac, and Bogdan Bogdanovic supporting the effort, the Clippers are within reach of their goal — and that pursuit could help Harden achieve a milestone held by NBA legend Scottie Pippen.

Boasting a 37-30 record in the regular season, the Clippers are looking to solidify their strong performance against various opponents. Despite facing some challenges along the way, they are now poised to push for a playoff berth in April, with Harden playing a pivotal role.

While the team focuses on its playoff ambitions, Harden has his eyes set on another achievement. After surpassing the 30,000-point mark, he’s now on the brink of adding another accolade, one that ties him to Pippen’s impressive legacy.

In the list of players with the most consecutive playoff appearances in NBA history, Karl Malone leads the way with 19. Pippen ranks fifth on that list, and Harden, currently with 15 straight postseason appearances — is closing in. If the Clippers make the playoffs this year, Harden will move one step closer to matching Pippen’s mark.

Scottie Pippen #33 of the Portland TrailBlazers looking on during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Staples Center.

Harden surpasses Pippen in another milestone

James Harden continues to make history in the NBA. With his impressive play for the Los Angeles Clippers, the star guard has surpassed Scottie Pippen in yet another statistical category.

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During the 2024 NBA playoffs, Harden recorded his 1,049th career playoff assist, moving past Pippen to claim 10th place on the all-time postseason assists leaderboard.

Currently, Harden has reached 1,061 career playoff assists. If the Clippers advance in this season’s playoffs, he could add to his total and surpass Pippen in yet another milestone.

Harden’s NBA milestones

Beyond climbing the all-time assists leaderboard, Harden has etched his name in NBA history with several significant achievements. He has also surpassed legends like Oscar Robertson to become the 12th-leading scorer in league history, further solidifying his legacy.

Here are some of Harden’s most notable accolades:

• NBA Most Valuable Player (2018): The pinnacle of individual achievement, recognizing his dominance that season.
• NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2012): Honoring his impactful contributions off the bench with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
• 11× NBA All-Star: Demonstrating his consistent presence among the league’s elite.
• 6× All-NBA First Team: Highlighting his standing as one of the best players during those seasons.
• NBA 75th Anniversary Team: Cementing his place among the greatest players in NBA history.
• 3× NBA Scoring Champion: Showcasing his elite scoring prowess.
• 2× NBA Assists Leader: Emphasizing his exceptional ability to create opportunities for teammates.