<p>Both <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Stephen Curry</a></strong> and <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden">James Harden</a></strong> entered the league as top prospects in the 2009 <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a></strong> Draft. While The Beard was chosen with the third overall pick by the Oklahoma City Thunder, the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Golden State Warriors</a></strong> selected Steph with the seventh pick.</p>



<p>From then on, they have formed a rivalry in the West. In fact, one of the reasons Harden couldn’t win a ring yet is because Curry stood in his way with a star-studded Warriors team <strong>on many occasions</strong>.</p>



<p>On Thursday night, it was Harden who got the upper hand as the Los Angeles Clippers beat the Dubs 121-113 at home. The Beard put on a show with 28 points, 7 rebounds, 15 assists, and four blocked shots. After the game, Curry showed <strong>nothing but praise</strong> for the former MVP.</p>



<p>“<em><strong>Ultimate respect</strong></em>,” Curry said of Harden, via <em>ClutchPoints</em>. “<em>We’re in the same draft class. <strong>A lot of battles back and forth and the fact that we’re still doing it. We don’t spend much time together off the court, but there’s always that smile</strong> when I see a guy like that because I know, <strong>we both know, how much it takes to perform at the level that we’ve been at for so long and none of us wanna see it kinda go away</strong>.</em>“</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/28084916/Curry-and-Harden-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets guards Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors during Game Five of the Western Conference Semifinals of the 2019 NBA Playoffs." class="wp-image-92390" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets guards Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors during Game Five of the Western Conference Semifinals of the 2019 NBA Playoffs.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>James Harden’s historic night</h2>



<p>Apart from putting up some impressive numbers to help the Clippers make it five wins in a row, Harden <strong>reached 25,000 career points</strong> in the third quarter. Of course, Curry had something to say about that too.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/steph-curry-calls-out-warriors-starting-lineup-20231211-BUS-91286.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231211_BUS_91286_Stephen-Curry.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry seems to be frustrated with the team&apos;s poor form, and he believes it&apos;s time to make a change to turn the season around once and for all.
" title="Steph Curry calls out Warriors&apos; starting lineup" publication_id="BUS#20231211#BUS#91286"></div>


<p>“<em><strong>All those milestones, they’re reminders of how dope it is to do what we get to do and at the level that we’ve been doing it,”</strong> </em>Curry added<em>. “When I actually heard it during the game, I actually took a second and was cool to reflect on the journey, <strong>but still wanna go out there and beat him. He still wants to beat me and until it’s all said and done, that’s the competition.”</strong></em></p>



<p>It’s safe to say it was quite the night for Harden. However, the 34-year-old made it clear he doesn’t care that much about his personal stats, as long as his team keeps on winning. </p>



<p><em><strong>“The win [is most important],</strong></em>” Harden said. <em>“<strong>It doesn’t matter if I get 10 points tonight. Winning is the key. </strong>The stats and everything, I’ve done a lot of different things. Accomplished a lot of different individual stats. To me, it’s about winning, about building chemistry throughout the team. To get better as a unit. <strong>I think tonight was another step forward for us as a unit.</strong></em>“</p>



<h2>Harden’s record against Curry</h2>



<p>This was the 56th game between Curry and Harden. While the regular season record gives Harden the edge (20-16), Steph emerged victorious on most occasions when it came to playoff meetings (14-6).</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/james-harden-takes-another-shot-at-philly-after-new-role-with-clippers-20231123-BUS-87374.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231123_BUS_87374_James-Harden-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="NBA star James Harden is thankful for his new role with the Los Angeles Clippers, so he took yet another shot at his former team, complaining about the way he was used in Philadelphia.
" title="James Harden takes another shot at Philly after new role with Clippers" publication_id="BUS#20231123#BUS#87374"></div>


<p>Therefore, it makes sense Harden is not celebrating too much these kinds of nights. The guard is not getting any younger, and this may be one of his last opportunities to chase that elusive championship. That’s why he will take his time to enjoy his personal records and stats.</p>



<p><em>“<strong>Once it’s all said and done, I’ll definitely sit back and kind of, you know, have an overall picture of what I did I accomplish</strong>, you know what mean. But now, I’m just in a moment, you know what I mean?</em>,” said Harden.</p>


Stephen Curry makes eye-opening comment about James Harden

Stephen Curry shows James Harden the ultimate respect - Bolavip US

NBA News: Stephen Curry reflects on rivalry with James Harden

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<p>The<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Clippers</a> </strong>sacrificed a lot of depth to get<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden</a></strong>. Likewise, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/russell-westbrook" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Russell Westbrook</strong> </a>sacrificed his starting role to accommodate him. Thus far, it hasn’t paid off, but it sure has proven that<strong> the team is trying to accomplish something bigger than just one individual.</strong></p>



<p>Notably, Harden <strong>claims to know about sacrifice as well.</strong> He allegedly did so during his days with the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> <strong>Philadelphia 76ers</strong></a>, helping <strong>Daryl Morey </strong>out so he could walk his way around the salary cap and improve the team for years to come.</p>



<p>We already know how that ended, with Harden publically calling Morey ‘a liar’ and hinting at <strong>being promised a max contract in his next deal if he agreed to take a pay cut in free agency. </strong>Not only was that a violation of the league’s rules, but it also ended a years-long relationship between Harden and the one who trusted him the most.</p>



<p>With that in mind, the former <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Rockets</a></strong> star had a tell-all interview with <strong>Sam Amick of The Athletic</strong>, and<strong> NBA Commissioner Adam Silver</strong> might be taking notes already.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/28090903/James-Harden-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="James Harden" class="wp-image-84976" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Harden Confirms Morey Promised Him A Max Contract</h2>



<p>Talking about his frustration and how things ended up between the two, Harden stated that he had given up so much money already, which is why he wanted to leave for a place where he could compete at a high level while also getting paid. Then,<strong> he confirmed Morey had promised him a max contract, which is a clear violation of the league’s policies:</strong></p>



<p><strong>(Transcript via The Athletic)</strong></p>



<p><em>“</em><strong>Harden:</strong> <em>These last few years, I sacrificed so much — whether it’s role, whether it’s financial — that, at this point, it’s over with. I just want to be able to move forward and still have the opportunity to make some money and obviously win at the highest level.</em></p>



<p><strong>Amick:</strong> <em>So you mention the financial part, and I was hoping you could clarify one aspect of that situation. Were you actually told by the Sixers that you had that deal coming?</em></p>



<p><strong>Harden:</strong> <em>A max?</em></p>



<p><strong>Amick:<em> </em></strong><em>Yeah.</em></p>



<p><strong>Harden:</strong> <em>Yeah.</em></p>



<p><strong>Amick</strong>: <em>That was said by Daryl?</em></p>



<p><strong>Harden:</strong> <em>Yes. Yes.”</em></p>



<p>There you go. Whether the league will do anything about this or not remains to be seen, but it pretty much confirmed what most fans and analysts speculated <strong>since the beginning of the saga.</strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/28090706/James-Harden-2-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="James Harden Clippes" class="wp-image-85859" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>James Harden playing for the Clippers</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Harden Felt Betrayed</h2>



<p>The former MVP compared his relationship with Morey — which dated way back to his days with the Rockets — to a marriage. He didn’t care for the way his GM reportedly iced him out <strong>and felt disrespected by it:</strong></p>



<p><em>“Instead of (Morey) having a conversation with me (about free agency) or saying,</em> <em>‘All right James, we don’t want to offer you this, but we have this.’ Then we go back and forth, and that’s a dialogue,</em>” Harden said. <em><strong>“But you just ice me out? Then it’s like, you don’t respect me as much as I thought you did. You don’t need people like that, you know what I mean? So it’s just bad karma. People were throwing dirt on my name, but the good guys always win.”</strong></em></p>



<p>Morey has a long-withstanding reputation for being kind of shady when dealing with players and other teams, so it wouldn’t be much of a surprise to see him do that. Also,<strong> it’s not like this would be the first — or even last — time something like this happens.</strong></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/sixers-have-a-plan-to-replace-james-harden-but-it-will-take-time-20231102-BUS-82599.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231102_BUS_82599_James-Harden.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With James Harden finally being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers&apos; GM Daryl Morey will play the waiting game until he finds the perfect replacement.
" title="Sixers have a plan to replace James Harden, but it will take time" publication_id="BUS#20231102#BUS#82599"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/james-harden-blames-the-sixers-for-holding-him-back-im-not-a-system-player-20231103-BUS-82653.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231103_BUS_82653_James-Harden-6.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="In his introductory press conference with the Los Angeles Clippers, James Harden took a shot at the Philadelphia 76ers.
" title="James Harden blames the Sixers for holding him back: &apos;I&apos;m not a system player&apos;" publication_id="BUS#20231103#BUS#82653"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/james-harden-takes-another-shot-at-philly-after-new-role-with-clippers-20231123-BUS-87374.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231123_BUS_87374_James-Harden-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="NBA star James Harden is thankful for his new role with the Los Angeles Clippers, so he took yet another shot at his former team, complaining about the way he was used in Philadelphia.
" title="James Harden takes another shot at Philly after new role with Clippers" publication_id="BUS#20231123#BUS#87374"></div>


<p>At the end of the day, we might never know what actually happened and how it happened, and chances are that Harden would’ve never gotten that max deal in free agency anyway. Still, <strong>he has every right to feel betrayed</strong> if Morey, indeed, made such a promise.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="656f2c06f2b571abd7e4ac89" data-title="Is Harden telling the truth?" data-options="2"></div>

James Harden reveals why he called Daryl Morey a liar

James Harden blames the Sixers for holding him back: 'I'm not a system player'

James Harden takes another shot at Philly after new role with Clippers

James Harden reveals why he called Daryl Morey a liar - Bolavip US

<p>Even though it’s been half a decade since <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kawhi-leonard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kawhi Leonard</a> </strong>left Texas, he’ll always be tied to the<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-antonio-spurs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">San Antonio Spurs.</a></strong> He<strong> led the team to their last <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>championship</strong> and became their franchise player before an injury severed his relationship with the organization.</p>



<p>Leonard has never been outspoken or the kind of player who shows his emotions. He has rarely addressed his past with the organization, and given the way he left, that <strong>rubbed some fans the wrong way.</strong></p>



<p>That’s why a portion of the Spurs’ faithful have always booed Leonard every single time he’s come back to their arena. Notably, that’s not something that resembles the values of the fan base, <strong>according to Gregg Popovich.</strong></p>



<p>With that in mind, the legendary coach reached out to the scorers’ table to grab a mic and<strong> demand the fans to stop booing Leonard </strong>on Wednesday night’s game, letting them know that they’re better than that.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/28112214/greggpopovich-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-26084" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Kawhi Tips Hat To Spurs Fans</h2>



<p>Not many people would’ve had <strong>such a classy gesture towards a former player</strong>, especially considering the fact that Leonard forced his way out of the team and didn’t leave on good terms. Even so, he still has some love for the guys who once rooted for him:</p>



<p><em>“<strong>If I don’t have a Spurs jersey on, they’re probably gonna boo me for the rest of my career. It is what it is. </strong>They’re one of the best fans in the league and they get very competitive. When I’m on the streets or going into restaurants, they show love,”</em> Leonard said.<strong><em> “They’re a very classy organization, and I’m pretty sure he [Popovich] wants to keep it that way.”</em></strong></p>



<p>When asked about the incident, the Hall of Famer coach <strong>was as blunt as he usually is</strong>, keeping it all about business and stating that he didn’t want Leonard to get mad and have a big game:</p>



<p><strong><em>“You don’t poke the bear,”</em></strong> Popovich said. <em><strong>“Anyone who knows anything about sports knows you don’t poke the bear; that’s my answer.”</strong></em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/28115518/kawhi-leonard-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-9794" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Kawhi Leonard — Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Kawhi Has No Hard Feelings</h2>



<p>Leonard reportedly didn’t like the way the Spurs handled his injury. Some of his teammates reportedly resented the fact that they thought he was healthy enough to play and didn’t. Even so<strong>, he has no hard feelings for Coach Pop.</strong></p>



<p><strong><em>“He’s the reason why I’m the player I am today,”</em></strong> Leonard said back in 2022<em>.<strong> “[He] built that foundation, showing me winning basketball.</strong> He’s a great coach. Still one of the best coaches I’ve had. We’ve been in too many battles to have a scar on our relationship.”</em></p>



<p>The Spurs haven’t been competitive since Leonard left. He went on to win another NBA championship, this time with the <strong>Toronto Raptors,</strong> and he’s trying to do the same with the <strong>Los Angeles Clippers.</strong></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/kawhi-leonard-puts-load-management-critics-on-blast-20231003-BUS-71590.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231003_BUS_71590_Kawhi-Leonard.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard is sick and tired of people calling him out for his load management.
" title="Kawhi Leonard puts load management critics on blast" publication_id="BUS#20231003#BUS#71590"></div>


<p>Injuries have often stood in his way to fulfill that goal, so perhaps he was right all along about the way the Spurs dealt with it. But at the end of the day, there’s just no need to resent the guy who<strong> trusted him and developed him when no one thought he was going to be as good as he is nowadays.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="655fb110f2b571abd7e49844" data-title="Should Spurs fans boo Leonard?" data-options="2"></div>

Kawhi Leonard reacts to Gregg Popovich's classy gesture

Kawhi Leonard reacts to Gregg Popovich's classy gesture - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Clippers</a> had lost six games in a row since trading for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden</a>.</strong> Then, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/russell-westbrook" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell Westbrook</a></strong> requested to come off the bench to allow him to run the show, and they’re now winners of three consecutive games.</p>



<p>Of course, the tough patch<em> </em><strong>wasn’t just Harden’s fault</strong><em>,</em> but it was hard for them to coexist on the court at this point in his career. Now, the former Houston Rockets star has more freedom to do what he does best, and it’s showing on the scoreboard.</p>



<p>When asked about this turnaround, Harden<em> </em><strong>credited Tyronn Lue for allowing him to be creative</strong> and get a better understanding of the rival’s defense, which gives him a chance to do more damage as a scorer and a playmaker:</p>



<p>“<strong><em>They just </em></strong><em><strong>allow me to get creative and read the defenses </strong>and see what they’re doing on the defensive floor, and every game is different to where [Lue] sees something and I’m allowed to sit back and do it,”</em> Harden said.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/28090903/James-Harden-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="James Harden" class="wp-image-84976" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Harden Takes A Shot At Doc Rivers</h2>



<p>Notably, Harden <strong>took another shot at Doc Rivers and the Philadelphia 76ers,</strong> complaining about the way he was deployed next to Joel Embiid. He now claims that he’s having a more similar role to the one he had in Brooklyn, as he’s a pass-first player with<strong> Kawhi Leonard and Paul George</strong> by his side:</p>



<p><strong><em>“Not so much Philly at all, but definitely similar to Brooklyn to where [Lue] just allows me to be myself,”</em></strong> Harden stated. <em>“And obviously he has certain plays and things he draws up after timeouts and whatnot, but we have our concepts. <strong>Obviously we know when [Kawhi Leonard] got it going, and [Paul George] got it going or in the pick and roll we’re generating really efficient shots. It’s pretty simple. It’s a game.”</strong></em></p>



<p>This isn’t the first time that Harden has complained about his days in Philadelphia. He had already stated that the Sixers<strong> never gave him a long leash,</strong> even though he was their primary ball-handler, playmaker, and led the league in assists per game and total assists during his days there.</p>



<h2>The Clippers Look Better</h2>



<p>Whatever the case, moving Westbrook to the second unit was just what they needed to do to get over the hump. Now, <strong>Kawhi Leonard admits that having Harden pulling the strings of the offense takes so much pressure off him:</strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/28090706/James-Harden-2-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="James Harden Clippes" class="wp-image-85859" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>James Harden playing for the Clippers</figcaption></figure>



<p><em><strong>“The job has changed a little bit,”</strong></em> Leonard said. <em>“Now I’ve got more energy on the defensive end, but when my number is called, I gotta be ready to attack and create plays for my teammates, so it’s a little different dynamic getting used to instead of me bringing it up or calling every play for me coming up the court. We got another player that could do the same and make it easier.”</em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/james-harden-blames-the-sixers-for-holding-him-back-im-not-a-system-player-20231103-BUS-82653.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231103_BUS_82653_James-Harden-6.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="In his introductory press conference with the Los Angeles Clippers, James Harden took a shot at the Philadelphia 76ers.
" title="James Harden blames the Sixers for holding him back: &apos;I&apos;m not a system player&apos;" publication_id="BUS#20231103#BUS#82653"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/mavs-analyst-destroys-james-harden-with-epic-rant-joel-embiid-agrees-20231112-BUS-84654.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231112_BUS_84654_Los-Angeles-Clippers.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="An analyst from the Dallas Mavericks didn&apos;t mince his words when talking about Los Angeles Clippers star James Harden.
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        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="" image="" excerpt="" title="" publication_id=""></div>


<p>When locked in, there’s no denying that Harden can be one of the most disruptive offensive forces in the game, and having this kind of supporting cast, he might finally make it back to the NBA Finals<strong> for the first time in over a decade.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="655f9502f2b571abd7e497f9" data-title="Will the Clippers make it to the NBA Finals?" data-options="2"></div>

Mavs analyst destroys James Harden with epic rant, Joel Embiid agrees

James Harden takes another shot at Philly after new role with Clippers - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Clippers</a>‘ decision to trade for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden</a></strong> came with some risk but also with great potential return. However, with<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/russell-westbrook" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> <strong>Russell Westbrook </strong></a>already on the team, people questioned their fit and ability to coexist on the court at this point in their careers.</p>



<p>Westbrook had already excelled with the team, whereas Harden was more of a wildcard after all the recent stops in his career. And with this being potentially his last chance, <strong>you knew he wouldn’t take a backseat to anybody.</strong></p>



<p>That’s why Westbrook took the high road<strong> and requested Tyronn Lue to come off the bench </strong>to help the second unit and provide more balance for the starting lineup. And thus far, it seems like that’s the only way they can get things done, even if the Clippers didn’t want that, according to<strong> The Athletic’s Law Murray.</strong></p>



<h2>Clippers Could Move On From Westbrook</h2>



<p><strong><em>“The decision to bring Westbrook off of the bench is not one that the players or coaches would have wanted,”</em></strong> wrote Murray.<em> “Lue wanted to establish Westbrook as the primary ball handler when he shared the floor with Harden, with Harden being the shooting guard. But Harden’s discomfort shooting 3s off of the catch became a recurring theme, along with his passive approach to scoring that led Lue to say Harden was being “too polite” after a bad loss Sunday against the Memphis Grizzlies.<strong> Lue decided to have Harden be the primary ball handler in Tuesday’s loss in Denver, and Harden closed the game over Westbrook in a fourth quarter that saw the Clippers lose a 7-point lead and get outscored 19-9 in the final six minutes of the game.”</strong></em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/28113401/Russell-Westbrook-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="Russell Westbrook" class="wp-image-20455" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Russell Westbrook</figcaption></figure>



<p>Nonetheless, moving Westbrook to the second unit als<strong>o makes him somewhat expendable</strong>, and the Clippers still need to recoup some of the depth they lost getting Harden in the first place.</p>



<p><em>“The reality of this move is that Harden was brought in to ultimately replace Westbrook in the case that a partnership between the two players on the floor did not work,”</em> Murray continued. <em><strong>“While Lue advocated for Westbrook, the Clippers front office has always preferred a point guard who is a theoretical fit with Leonard and George in terms of size and shooting ability.”</strong></em></p>



<h2>The Clippers Aren’t A Finished Product</h2>



<p>The Clippers need size. They gave up a lot of it getting Harden, and <strong>Ivica Zubac has struggled against more physical big men</strong>, so an upgrade at that position should be one of the biggest points of emphasis for the front office:</p>



<p><strong><em>“The Clippers still need to balance the roster out and are expected to continue evaluating the team going forward,</em></strong>” Murray continued. <em>“That evaluation now includes Harden as the undisputed primary playmaker, Mann as a starter and Westbrook as an increasingly expendable asset who will have to adjust to a new role — which will also cost Hyland a spot in the second unit as well. If the losses continue, there will be more pressure on the front office to consider whether they can keep the four Los Angeles stars together. <strong>But the player who has the most to lose is Westbrook, who is already on a much lighter deal than Harden and extension-eligible stars George and Leonard.</strong></em>“</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/clippers-stars-talk-about-russell-westbrook-coming-off-the-bench-20231119-BUS-86542.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231119_BUS_86542_Russell-Westbrook-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Los Angeles Clippers finally won a game with James Harden on the roster, and a lot of that may have had to do with Russell Westbrook&apos;s new role off the bench.
" title="Clippers stars talk about Russell Westbrook coming off the bench" publication_id="BUS#20231119#BUS#86542"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/the-clippers-need-to-move-russell-westbrook-to-the-bench-20231112-BUS-84370.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231112_BUS_84370_Russell-Westbrook-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With James Harden arriving in Southern California, Russell Westbrook might have to sacrifice the most and agree to come off the bench. 
" title="The Clippers need to move Russell Westbrook to the bench" publication_id="BUS#20231112#BUS#84370"></div>


<p><strong>This wouldn’t be fair to Westbrook by any means,</strong> but this is a ruthless business, and this wouldn’t be the last time he’s been a team’s fall guy. </p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="655ba369f2b571abd7e491ba" data-title="Will the Clippers trade Westbrook?" data-options="2"></div>

Clippers could look to trade Russell Westbrook

The Clippers need to move Russell Westbrook to the bench

Clippers could look to trade Russell Westbrook - Bolavip US

<p>It took them seven games, but the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Clippers</a> have finally won a game with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden</a> on the roster.</strong> Of course, it wasn’t all on him, and it was clear that it would take some period of adjustment before everybody was on the same page, but still, it wasn’t pretty.</p>



<p>Notably,<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/russell-westbrook" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell Westbrook</a> made Tyronn Lue’s job a lot easier</strong> by stepping up and asking to come off the bench. Truth be told, it seemed like the only logical move, but it’s not usual to see a former MVP willingly making such a big sacrifice.</p>



<p>Westbrook’s move to the second unit did wonders for the team. It gave them the balance they desperately needed, and it allowed Harden to play freely with the ball on his hands and playmake for others <strong>without alternating possessions with him and Westbrook as the primary ball-handler.</strong></p>



<p>Following the game,<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kawhi-leonard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kawhi Leonard</a> and Paul George</strong> shared their thoughts on Russ’ decision to take one for the team and move to the bench, praising him for that shocking turn of events.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/28113401/Russell-Westbrook-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="Russell Westbrook" class="wp-image-20455" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Russell Westbrook</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Kawhi, PG, Talk About Westbrook’s New Role</h2>



<p><strong><em>“That’s what it takes,” </em></strong>Leonard said. <em>“Whatever coach needs, you gotta suck it up, just go with it, see what the opportunity presents for the team. I’ve been there before, starting my career and just every year trying to see different ways you can win a basketball game. <strong>I think he’s gonna be good. It’s gonna take time for us all to figure it out, but I think he did well. Came in and hit a big three for us and got some stops, great defense.”</strong></em></p>



<p>Leonard also praised Westbrook for leading by example<strong> and setting the tone for other bench players</strong>, lauding his sacrifice and stating that the team is still a work in progress:</p>



<p>“<em>We’re all trying to figure out ways to win. It’s a very noticeable sacrifice that he’s making, just because he’s not starting,” </em>continued Leonard. <strong><em>“If he makes that leap like that, it shows us and other teammates that are sitting on the bench that we all can sacrifice ourselves.”</em></strong></p>



<p>As for George, he claimed it was ‘tough’ not having Westbrook’s energy around him and all the chemistry they had developed d<strong>ating backs to his days in Oklahoma.</strong> Still, he tipped his hat to his teammate for his leadership:</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/28090954/Russell-Westbrook-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Russell Westbrook Clippers" class="wp-image-84401" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Los Angeles Clippers PG Russell Wesbrook</figcaption></figure>



<p>“<em><strong>It’s tough, you know, it’s tough,”</strong></em> George said. <em>“With his energy, and obviously, it’s a ton of chemistry there. So we’ve always played well off of one another. But it takes a lot; <strong>for his sacrifice, for us going forward, to try and figure things out. Can’t say enough just on the character of Russ, and just his leadership.”</strong></em></p>



<p><strong>It will all now be about consistency. </strong>Westbrook is perhaps the best backup point guard in the game, and coach Lue can now have at least two of his stars on the court at all times.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/the-clippers-need-to-move-russell-westbrook-to-the-bench-20231112-BUS-84370.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231112_BUS_84370_Russell-Westbrook-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With James Harden arriving in Southern California, Russell Westbrook might have to sacrifice the most and agree to come off the bench. 
" title="The Clippers need to move Russell Westbrook to the bench" publication_id="BUS#20231112#BUS#84370"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/how-does-the-james-harden-trade-change-the-clippers-and-sixers-full-breakdown-20231031-BUS-82019.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231031_BUS_82019_James-Harden-8.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Now that James Harden has finally been traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, we beak down the future implications of this move for all parties involved.
" title="How the James Harden trade will reshape the NBA landscape" publication_id="BUS#20231031#BUS#82019"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/james-harden-hits-back-at-disrespectful-mavs-broadcaster-20231116-BUS-85902.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231116_BUS_85902_James-Harden-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Los Angeles Clippers star James Harden seemed unfazed by Brian Dameris&apos; rant, and he talked about getting back into his best shape sooner rather than later.
" title="James Harden hits back at disrespectful Mavs broadcaster" publication_id="BUS#20231116#BUS#85902"></div>


<p>The Clippers <strong>are now 4-7, </strong>and getting that first win with their new roster was instrumental in boosting morale. With the right mindset and with everybody putting the team first, it wouldn’t be shocking to see them coming out of the West and making the NBA Finals.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="655a3224f2b571abd7e48fe9" data-title="Will the Clippers make the NBA Finals?" data-options="2"></div>

Clippers stars talk about Russell Westbrook coming off the bench

How the James Harden trade will reshape the NBA landscape

James Harden hits back at disrespectful Mavs broadcaster

Clippers stars talk about Russell Westbrook coming off the bench - Bolavip US

<p>Following the<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Clippers</a> loss to the </strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-mavericks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Dallas Mavericks</strong>, </a>Mavs commentator <strong>Brian Dameris</strong> eviscerated former MVP<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> <strong>James Harden</strong></a>, calling him out for the way he’s handled his career as of late, as well as for<strong> turning his back on Daryl Morey</strong>, who always had his back.</p>



<p>Dameris stated that Harden was a problem everywhere he went. He called him out for <strong>not stepping up in the playoffs and whatnot</strong>, and he didn’t mince his words about his personality, either.</p>



<p>However, the <strong>former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> star claimed to be unbothered</strong> by those comments. When asked about that, he simply stated that he does a great job of shutting down the outside noise and that it doesn’t affect him at all:</p>



<p><strong><em>“He doesn’t know me or the situation,”</em></strong> said James. <em>“That would be [expletive] up if I went at him and started being disrespectful to him but I can’t. They don’t know anything. They just go off what they see on social media or hearsay. I don’t know exactly what he said, but <strong>I pay that [expletive] no mind. I do a really good job at ignoring the noise because it doesn’t affect me.”</strong></em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/28090903/James-Harden-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="James Harden" class="wp-image-84976" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Harden Admits He’s Not In Great Shape</h2>



<p>Still, even Harden had to admit that he’s not playing his best basketball right now.  Unsurprisingly, <strong>he blamed the lack of a training camp</strong> for his current shape, stating that he’s taking steps in the right direction to get back to his usual self:</p>



<p>“<strong><em>I keep reiterating that I didn’t have a training camp or a preseason,”</em></strong> Harden said after the loss to the Denver Nuggets. <em>“Kinda learning on the fly for a new team, also getting myself into James Harden shape and game shape is very, very important<strong>. Tonight was definitely another step in the right direction, and just keep improving; I wasn’t really playing 5-on-5. These are my practices.”</strong></em></p>



<p>Of course, Harden forgot to mention a tiny detail, which is that he didn’t have a training camp because he decided to hold out<strong>. He should’ve still worked out and stayed in shape, even if he was away from the team.</strong></p>



<h2>Tyronn Lue Knows It’s A Big Challenge</h2>



<p>Harden c<strong>omes with a lot of baggage. </strong>There are countless stories about his ego, and everybody has seen him burning bridges every place he’s gone. Add three more stars to the mix, and coach <strong>Tyronn Lue</strong> knows he’s in for the toughest challenge of his career:</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/28091349/James-Harden-6-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="James Harden on the sidelines during a Clippers&apos; game against the Trail Blazers" class="wp-image-82671" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>James Harden on the sidelines during a Clippers’ game against the Trail Blazers</figcaption></figure>



<p>“<strong><em>This is my toughest challenge as a head coach, but I’m up for the task for sure,”</em></strong> Lue told Bleacher Report. <em>“The biggest thing is getting these guys to sacrifice for guys, whether that’s starting the game, finishing the game, shots, touches, who’s running pick-and-rolls, and things like that. <strong>Getting these guys to sacrifice will be the biggest challenge all season.”</strong></em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/mavs-analyst-destroys-james-harden-with-epic-rant-joel-embiid-agrees-20231112-BUS-84654.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231112_BUS_84654_Los-Angeles-Clippers.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="An analyst from the Dallas Mavericks didn&apos;t mince his words when talking about Los Angeles Clippers star James Harden.
" title="Mavs analyst destroys James Harden with epic rant, Joel Embiid agrees" publication_id="BUS#20231112#BUS#84654"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/james-harden-blames-the-sixers-for-holding-him-back-im-not-a-system-player-20231103-BUS-82653.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231103_BUS_82653_James-Harden-6.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="In his introductory press conference with the Los Angeles Clippers, James Harden took a shot at the Philadelphia 76ers.
" title="James Harden blames the Sixers for holding him back: &apos;I&apos;m not a system player&apos;" publication_id="BUS#20231103#BUS#82653"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/how-does-the-james-harden-trade-change-the-clippers-and-sixers-full-breakdown-20231031-BUS-82019.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231031_BUS_82019_James-Harden-8.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Now that James Harden has finally been traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, we beak down the future implications of this move for all parties involved.
" title="How the James Harden trade will reshape the NBA landscape" publication_id="BUS#20231031#BUS#82019"></div>


<p>At the end of the day, the Clippers’ success — or lack thereof — will most likely depend on something that has been almost impossible thus far, which is getting Harden to buy in on something that’s not about him at all.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6556217ef2b571abd7e48a3f" data-title="Will the Clippers figure things out with Harden?" data-options="2"></div>

James Harden hits back at disrespectful Mavs broadcaster - Bolavip US

<p>The<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Clippers</a> are winless since trading for<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> James Harden</a>.</strong> They may have reached a new low after giving the struggling <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Memphis Grizzlies </a></strong>just their second win of the season, all while dropping their record to 3-6.</p>



<p>Of course, the Clippers aren’t so worried about the regular season as much as they are about the playoffs, but<strong> losing habits tend to snowball,</strong> and losing five consecutive games leads to frustration.</p>



<p>For<strong> coach Tyronn Lue, </strong>it’s not so much about the losses but about the way they’re losing. He believes his players are just walking around and lack the intensity they need to <strong>get the job done at the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> level.</strong></p>



<h2>Clippers Are Going Through The Motions, Says Coach Lue</h2>



<p><strong><em>“I think playing too slow, just playing too slow,”</em></strong> Lue said, as quoted by The Athletic. <em>“We get rebounds, you get stops, you got to push it. On makes, we got to push it, get up quick and attack early. <strong>No, I mean, we just can’t just walk around offensively. Like you got to get to the next actions.”</strong></em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/28094227/Kawhi-Leonard-and-Paul-George-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Kawhi Leonard and Paul George" class="wp-image-73891" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Kawhi Leonard and Paul George of the Los Angeles Clippers</figcaption></figure>



<p>The former NBA champion wants his players to go hard on both ends of the floor. He thinks his star players<strong> need to lead by example </strong>so the rest of the team can play off their energy as well:</p>



<p><strong><em>“If you don’t do that, you don’t do it hard, you get beat every night and we’re seeing those results,</em></strong>” Lue added. <em>“So until we want to play hard on both ends of the floor, if we want to do things hard: cuts, screens, running the screen, sprinting the floor, then it is going to be tough nights, every single night. <strong>And so, you know, it’s up to our guys to change their mentality in that regard. Because we’re teaching it, we’re showing it, we’re telling it. So now we got to perform.”</strong></em></p>



<h2>He Wants Harden To Be Harden</h2>



<p>Harden’s arrival hasn’t done much to help the Clippers win games — yet. Even so, <strong>he’s not the only one to blame for the team’s struggles</strong>. If anything, coach Lue wants him to be the same player he’s always been and not overthink his new role too much:</p>



<p>“<strong><em>Just play, like just do your thing,</em></strong>” Lue said. <em>“Like, if you do it too much, we’ll let you know. And he’s a special player. And so we understand that. And when you come into a new situation that you have really good players, you know, it’s always tough to come in and just try to take over. <strong>And so with PG [Paul George], Kawhi [Leonard] and Russ [Russell Westbrook], we’ve had these conversations. So we just got to make sure we get James as comfortable as possible, because he’s going to be huge for our team and what we’re trying to do.”</strong></em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/how-does-the-james-harden-trade-change-the-clippers-and-sixers-full-breakdown-20231031-BUS-82019.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231031_BUS_82019_James-Harden-8.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Now that James Harden has finally been traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, we beak down the future implications of this move for all parties involved.
" title="How the James Harden trade will reshape the NBA landscape" publication_id="BUS#20231031#BUS#82019"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/the-clippers-need-to-move-russell-westbrook-to-the-bench-20231112-BUS-84370.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231112_BUS_84370_Russell-Westbrook-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With James Harden arriving in Southern California, Russell Westbrook might have to sacrifice the most and agree to come off the bench. 
" title="The Clippers need to move Russell Westbrook to the bench" publication_id="BUS#20231112#BUS#84370"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/mavs-analyst-destroys-james-harden-with-epic-rant-joel-embiid-agrees-20231112-BUS-84654.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231112_BUS_84654_Los-Angeles-Clippers.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="An analyst from the Dallas Mavericks didn&apos;t mince his words when talking about Los Angeles Clippers star James Harden.
" title="Mavs analyst destroys James Harden with epic rant, Joel Embiid agrees" publication_id="BUS#20231112#BUS#84654"></div>


<p>It’s normal that new teams struggle a little before finding their groove. The Clippers gave up some major contributors to land Harden, and they just need to learn how to coexist with this new group. It might take days; it might take weeks, <strong>but the results could be quite special.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="655228ecf2b571abd7e483fa" data-title="Will the Clippers make the NBA Finals?" data-options="2"></div>

Tyronn Lue rips Clippers stars after fifth straight loss

Tyronn Lue rips Clippers stars after fifth straight loss - Bolavip US

<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden </a></strong>is one of the<strong> most talented scorers and playmakers in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> history.</strong> As such, he’s been given a longer leash and more chances than the average player, especially from <strong>Daryl Morey</strong>, who trusted him from the very beginning of his career.</p>



<p>Morey traded for him and gave him everything he asked for in the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Rockets,</a></strong> from big-time money to superstar teammates <strong>and even hand-picked coaches. </strong></p>



<p>Harden eventually decided to leave Houston, and after a brief stop with the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brooklyn-nets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brooklyn Nets</a></strong>, he went running right back to Morey, who the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia 76ers </a></strong>had just hired. A couple of months went by, and he flirted with going back to Houston, and when his leverage powermove didn’t go his way, <strong>he blamed Morey and demanded another trade.</strong></p>



<p>That’s why<strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-mavericks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Dallas Mavericks </a></strong>commentator <strong>Brian Dameris didn’t mince his words against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Clippers</a>‘ new star, </strong>calling him out for the way he’s treated his teams, his teammates, Morey, and how he still hasn’t been able to lead any team.</p>



<h2>Mavs commentator eviscerates Harden</h2>



<p><strong><em>“I get on my knees every night and pray for someone to believe in me like Daryl Morey believed in you</em></strong>,” Dameris started. <em>“They traded Ben Simmons for you – how did they pull that off? And you know what, you went there, and you got a partner who got the MVP. He won the MVP. <strong>And what did you say afterward? You said, ‘They didn’t hand me the reins.&apos;”</strong></em></p>



<p>He continued his allocution by reminding him of his subpar performances in the playoffs and even predicted <strong>he’d have a tough time finding a new team</strong> if things don’t work out for him this season either:</p>



<p><em>“You’re the point guard; you’re holding the reins. And what did you do when you had the reins? You scored nine points in Game 7 against Boston. You blew a 3-2 series lead,”</em> Dameris continued. <em><strong>“If this doesn’t work this year, in this system with this team, then you’re going to go and point fingers at everybody else. You’re going to go back home, and you’re going to start swiping right for another team, and there’s not going to be anybody left. Because James — you’re not The Beard, you’re not the system, you’re the problem.”</strong></em></p>



<h2>Joel Embiid Takes Subtle Shot At Harden</h2>



<p>Notably, it seems like Dameris isn’t the only one who’s not happy with Harden’s actions. When asked about the Sixers’ recent surge and great start to the season, <strong>reigning MVP Joel Embiid </strong>may have taken a bit of a shot at his former teammate:</p>



<p><em><strong>“I think it’s a lot of credit to the culture that we have,”</strong></em> Embiid said. <em><strong>“No one has an ego on this team.</strong> We got new guys, we took them in, we got them up to speed. I think the fact that guys want to play with each other and they like being around each other, I think it helps a lot, too. <strong>Guys are unselfish; the ball is moving no matter if the shots are going in or not. Guys are just happy, just worried about the right thing—which is to win. That’s the only thing that matters, and that’s the only thing that should matter.”</strong></em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/james-harden-blames-the-sixers-for-holding-him-back-im-not-a-system-player-20231103-BUS-82653.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231103_BUS_82653_James-Harden-6.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="In his introductory press conference with the Los Angeles Clippers, James Harden took a shot at the Philadelphia 76ers.
" title="James Harden blames the Sixers for holding him back: &apos;I&apos;m not a system player&apos;" publication_id="BUS#20231103#BUS#82653"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/sixers-have-a-plan-to-replace-james-harden-but-it-will-take-time-20231102-BUS-82599.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231102_BUS_82599_James-Harden.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With James Harden finally being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers&apos; GM Daryl Morey will play the waiting game until he finds the perfect replacement.
" title="Sixers have a plan to replace James Harden, but it will take time" publication_id="BUS#20231102#BUS#82599"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/how-does-the-james-harden-trade-change-the-clippers-and-sixers-full-breakdown-20231031-BUS-82019.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231031_BUS_82019_James-Harden-8.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Now that James Harden has finally been traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, we beak down the future implications of this move for all parties involved.
" title="How the James Harden trade will reshape the NBA landscape" publication_id="BUS#20231031#BUS#82019"></div>


<p>The truth is that Harden is aging, injury-prone, and has zero championships to show for. That’s why teams won’t put up with his antics for much longer, and he might not even find a new team if he forces his way out of the Clippers <strong>like he’s done with every team he’s played for.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="654fb0a2f2b571abd7e48197" data-title="Will Harden ever win a championship?" data-options="2"></div>

Mavs analyst destroys James Harden with epic rant, Joel Embiid agrees - Bolavip US

<p>The<strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Los Angeles Clippers</a></strong> took a risk when they acquired <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/russell-westbrook" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell Westbrook. </a></strong>It wasn’t a big risk, as they got him at a discount and on a rental until the end of the season, and he was one of their best players down the stretch. That’s why bringing him back was a no-brainer, especially considering <strong>the massive pay cut he took to be there.</strong></p>



<p>Fast forward to today, and they’ve also added <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden</a></strong> to the mix. <strong>They’ve gone 0-3 since inserting the former MVP into the lineup, </strong>and while he’s not the one to blame for that — and neither is Russ — Westbrook might be the one who suffers because of his arrival.</p>



<p><strong>Tyronn Lue </strong>has had his four stars on the court in the starting lineup. However, <strong>the early returns haven’t been favorable.</strong> Their offense has gone stagnant and dormant at times, and having Westbrook standing on the corner while Harden dribbles for 10+ seconds isn’t the most efficient way to play in today’s <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a></strong>.</p>



<p>All teams need time to make adjustments, and it was natural to expect some growing pains with Harden’s arrival, as they also had to give up plenty of depth to get him. They might still be able to turn things around sooner rather than later, but for now, it seems like<strong> bringing Westbrook off the bench would make the most sense.</strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/28113401/Russell-Westbrook-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="Russell Westbrook" class="wp-image-20455" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Russell Westbrook</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Westbrook Should Lead The Second Unit</h2>



<p>Shifting Westbrook to the second unit wouldn’t be using him as the fall guy or pointing the finger at him for the team’s struggles.<strong> That would be unfair and inaccurate. </strong>Still, given Harden’s history of ego issues — and the fact that he’s their new star — he’s not going to come off the bench.</p>



<p>Westbrook has already proved that<strong> he’s able to embrace that role.</strong> He did it with this very same team last season during stretches. This way, the Clippers would get an instant offensive spark off the bench, a great playmaker who’ll get everyone his touches, <strong>and the best backup point guard in the league.</strong></p>



<p>Having Westbrook and Harden on the court at the same time worked in Houston, but that was four years ago. They don’t need two ball-dominant playmakers, especially if Westbrook <strong>has never been most of a catch-and-shoot guy or a player who’s efficient wandering around the corner.</strong></p>



<h2>Tyronn Lue Has Enough Weapons</h2>



<p>Also, getting Westbrook off the bench doesn’t necessarily mean his minutes have to take a bump. If anything, <strong>Coach Lue can stagger the minutes of all his star players to make sure to always have two or three of them on the court </strong>at the same time.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/28102429/Kawhi-Leonard-and-Paul-George-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-55472" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Kawhi Leonard and Paul George</figcaption></figure>



<p>Sometimes, Harden will get to have the rock on his hands in crunch time. On other days, it’ll be Westbrook’s turn, as they could just take a ‘hot-hand’ kind of approach. As for <strong>Kawhi Leonard and Paul George,</strong> having another star on the team will allow both of them to stay fresh for when it matters the most.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/how-does-the-james-harden-trade-change-the-clippers-and-sixers-full-breakdown-20231031-BUS-82019.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231031_BUS_82019_James-Harden-8.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Now that James Harden has finally been traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, we beak down the future implications of this move for all parties involved.
" title="How the James Harden trade will reshape the NBA landscape" publication_id="BUS#20231031#BUS#82019"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/russell-westbrook-opens-up-on-all-the-hate-he-got-from-lakers-fans-20231102-BUS-82563.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231102_BUS_82563_Russell-Westbrook.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Following the Los Angeles Clippers&apos; win over the Los Angeles Lakers, Russell Westbrook took a look back at his time with his former team and how things have improved for him since he left.
" title="Russell Westbrook opens up on all the hate he got from Lakers fans" publication_id="BUS#20231102#BUS#82563"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/james-harden-blames-the-sixers-for-holding-him-back-im-not-a-system-player-20231103-BUS-82653.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231103_BUS_82653_James-Harden-6.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="In his introductory press conference with the Los Angeles Clippers, James Harden took a shot at the Philadelphia 76ers.
" title="James Harden blames the Sixers for holding him back: &apos;I&apos;m not a system player&apos;" publication_id="BUS#20231103#BUS#82653"></div>


<p>A second unit led by Westbrook, <strong>Norman Powell, and Terance Mann</strong> would be one of the best in the league by a significant margin, not to mention the fact that they would finally have an insurance policy for their injury-prone superstars. It’s not a demotion; it’s a personnel shuffle, and it’s for the best.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="654fb060f2b571abd7e48195" data-title="Should Westbrook come off the bench?" data-options="2"></div>

Russell Westbrook opens up on all the hate he got from Lakers fans

The Clippers need to move Russell Westbrook to the bench - Bolavip US

<p>It took months, but <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden">James Harden</a></strong> finally got what he wanted – again. The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers">Philadelphia 76ers</a></strong> sent <em>The Beard</em> to the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers">Los Angeles Clippers</a></strong> this week, and in his first press conference since the trade, the guard <strong>took a subtle shot at his former team.</strong></p>



<p>When asked about the biggest challenge he had to overcome, the 34-year-old <strong>suggested he couldn’t be his true self</strong> in the City of Brotherly Love. According to Harden, he <strong>didn’t have so much freedom on the court</strong>.</p>



<p>“<em>Philly is just changing my role knowing I can give more, knowing I can do more, but if you want me to be honest, <strong>it’s like being on a leash…</strong> I never really had that opportunity [to score and facilitate freely],” </em>Harden said, via Tomer Azarly of <em>ClutchPoints</em>.</p>



<p>His comments immediately went viral, as people were waiting to listen what he had to say about the Sixers. Harden <strong>requested a trade in June</strong>, but in the meantime, he had to report to practice and be ready if needed.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/28092638/James-Harden-6-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="James Harden in action for the Sixers" class="wp-image-78756" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>James Harden in action for the Sixers</figcaption></figure>



<p>Harden expanded on what he meant by being on a leash, claiming that he <strong>didn’t feel enough confidence</strong> from the Sixers to let him do his thing. <em>“I think the game and I’m a creator on the court… [Need] somebody that trusts me, that believes in me, that understands me, that <strong>I’m not a system player. I am a system</strong>.”</em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/sixers-have-a-plan-to-replace-james-harden-but-it-will-take-time-20231102-BUS-82599.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231102_BUS_82599_James-Harden.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With James Harden finally being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers&apos; GM Daryl Morey will play the waiting game until he finds the perfect replacement.
" title="Sixers have a plan to replace James Harden, but it will take time" publication_id="BUS#20231102#BUS#82599"></div>


<h2>Are the Sixers to blame?</h2>



<p>Harden’s comments made some noise on social media as the stats reflect he carried the ball most of the time with the Sixers. In fact, <strong>only Luka Doncic had more ball possession per game</strong> than Harden last season. </p>



<p>Besides, many saw the guard’s comments <strong>as an excuse</strong> for his disappointing performances when it mattered the most. After all, the reason the Sixers traded for Harden in 2022 was to help Joel Embiid win a championship. But the team <strong>still failed to make it past the Eastern Conference semifinals.</strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/28091350/James-Harden-7-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="James Harden looks on from the bench during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers" class="wp-image-82670" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>James Harden looks on from the bench during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers</figcaption></figure>



<p>When they lost in the 2022 playoffs, Daryl Morey and company decided to run things back with Harden anyway. Though they weren’t giving up on him this year either, the Sixers <strong>were sure about one thing</strong>: they wouldn’t hand Harden the supermax extension he seeked. </p>



<p>That seemed to be a turning point in their relationship, as Harden opted into his player option only to request a trade. The 34-year-old said his idea when he left Brooklyn was to retire as a Sixer, <strong>blaming the front office for his exit</strong>. <em>“They didn’t want me, and it is that simple,”</em> Harden said.</p>



<h2>Harden hopes to win an elusive ring at Clippers</h2>



<p>Harden now joins a star-studded team with the likes of <strong>Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and Russell Westbrook</strong>, who happens to be one of his closest friends. On paper, this team has what it takes to succeed.</p>



<p>But of course, the Clippers will have chances <strong>as long as their stars stay healthy</strong>. Injuries have already hampered them in the past, so it’s definitely a thing to watch. The presence of other stars makes one wonder how much freedom Harden will have on the floor, and many are already asking <strong>how long it will take for him to settle in.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6544302df2b571abd7e4711e" data-title="Will Harden succeed with the Clippers?" data-options="2"></div>


<p><em>“<strong>Give it a break, y’all. It’ll be a process,</strong>” </em>Westbrook said about Harden’s integration to the team<em>. “I don’t have the answer. I don’t know, I don’t predict the future. It’s gonna be good games, bad games. It’s not just going to come together and mesh and we’re going to be perfectly fine. That’s unrealistic expectations for everybody.”</em></p>



<p>Harden is expected to make his Clippers debut on Monday, Nov. 6, against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Of course, all eyes will be on that game as Tyronn Lue’s team <strong>seems to have all the pieces to contend</strong>.</p>


James Harden blames the Sixers for holding him back: 'I'm not a system player' - Bolavip US

<p>As soon as <strong>the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> traded for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/russell-westbrook" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell Westbrook,</a> </strong>talking heads, analysts, and even fans weren’t so sure about the idea. Some thought they’d figure things out, while others <strong>were concerned about his fit with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Davis</a> and<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> LeBron James.</a></strong></p>



<p>Having two ball-dominant players and three non-shooters<strong> in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>‘s pace-and-space </strong>era didn’t seem like a good idea. So, it’s safe to say that no one was actually shocked to see that experiment fail under two different coaches.</p>



<p>Westbrook was the second-best player on the team, mostly because of Davis’ injuries and inconsistency. Even so, he was often the target and scapegoat for the fans, up to the point where he even <strong>got death threats and insults toward him and his family on social media.</strong></p>



<p>The Lakers <strong>eventually moved</strong> on from him, and the narrative around the NBA was that he was a toxic teammate and a ‘vampire’ in the locker room. It took a while before<strong> Paul George got the Los Angeles Clippers </strong>to give him another chance to prove that wasn’t the case.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/28113401/Russell-Westbrook-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="Russell Westbrook" class="wp-image-20455" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Russell Westbrook</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Russell Westbrook Talks About Being Happier With The Clippers</h2>



<p>Westbrook has admitted that playing for the Clippers <strong>has given him the joy of playing back</strong>. When asked about why he’s happier there than with the Lakers, he mostly talked about being embraced and actually appreciated:</p>



<p>“<strong><em>Long list. But we don’t got enough time for that today,” </em></strong>Westbrook said.<strong> <em>“I’m very grateful for an opportunity and a team that wanted me during a tough time.</em></strong><em> Just for myself and basketball-wise, being able to come to a spot where I was embraced<strong>. I told myself I would give like I always have and I would be the best I could possibly be. </strong>This game is supposed to be fun; that’s who I am; that’s the energy I bring. That joy to me is what makes me who I am.”</em></p>



<p>The Clippers didn’t hesitate to bring him back in the offseason, and he was happy to take a significant pay cut to make the numbers work. Also,<strong> he’s taken a step back to let Paul George and Kawhi Leonard do most of the scoring, </strong>and he seems okay with that.</p>



<h2>He Says The Narratives Were Made Up</h2>



<p>Westbrook has usually been<strong> a bit of a villain in the eyes of the fans,</strong> but not a single one of his former teamamtes have ever said anything bad about him. <strong>Enes Freedom and Bradley Beal </strong>called him the best teammate they ever had, and the fact that George and<strong> James Harden</strong> wanted to be reunited with him also dismisses that narrative:</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/05/28122109/Westbrook-LA-Suns-2023-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="Russell Westbrook" class="wp-image-2537" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Russell Westbrook</figcaption></figure>



<p>“<strong><em>Nobody knows, it’s just a made-up narrative that people make easy to run with,” </em></strong>Westbrook said. <em>“There’s never been a teammate, coach, staff — never one thing bad. It’s just what’s made up. But it’s all going to play out. <strong>You know why? What makes people upset is how I don’t give a f— because I know who I am; I know what kind of person I am.</strong> So I know when people say something, I don’t waver,</em></p>



<p><em> because I already know. I know what I do behind the scenes that people don’t see. And I like it that way.”</em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/former-lakers-player-blames-darvin-ham-for-russell-westbrooks-struggles-20230911-BUS-61124.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230911_BUS_61124_Russell-Westbrook.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Patrick Beverley didn&apos;t like the way Darvin Ham handled things with Russell Westbrook in the Los Angeles Lakers.
" title="Former Lakers player blames Darvin Ham for Russell Westbrook&apos;s struggles" publication_id="BUS#20230911#BUS#61124"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-to-get-bronny-james-at-all-costs-as-lebron-sets-new-career-goal-before-retirement-20231024-BUS-79424.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231024_BUS_79424_Bronny-James.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Los Angeles Lakers are determined to hold onto LeBron James until his final day in the league, and they&apos;re willing to go the extra mile to keep him around by making sure to get his firstborn, Bronny, as well.
" title="Lakers to get Bronny James at all costs as LeBron sets new career goal before retirement" publication_id="BUS#20231024#BUS#79424"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/tyronn-lue-makes-strong-revelation-about-russell-westbrook-20230727-BUS-36440.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230727_BUS_36440_russell-westbrook-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Even if he&apos;s not at the pinnacle of his game, Russell Westbrook is still a major part of the Los Angeles Clippers&apos; project right now.
" title="Tyronn Lue makes strong revelation about Russell Westbrook" publication_id="BUS#20230727#BUS#36440"></div>


<p>At the end of the day, things work out for the best for Westbrook. He’s back home in California and playing for a team, some teammates, a coach, and a fan base that truly appreciates him and his efforts. Hopefully,<strong> this will be the final stop in his Hall of Famer career.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6543e871f2b571abd7e47059" data-title="Will Westbrook win a ring with the Clippers?" data-options="2"></div>

Former Lakers player blames Darvin Ham for Russell Westbrook's struggles

Tyronn Lue makes strong revelation about Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook opens up on all the hate he got from Lakers fans - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/how-to-watch-golden-state-warriors-vs-sacramento-kings-for-free-in-the-us-tv-channel-and-live-streaming-2-20231101-BUS-82157.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231101_BUS_82157_Stephen-Curry-11.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Golden State Warriors will confront the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center in the 2023 NBA Season. Know how to watch this match on TV or live stream in the US.
" title="How to watch Golden State Warriors vs Sacramento Kings for FREE in the US: TV Channel and Live Streaming" publication_id="BUS#20231101#BUS#82157"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/warriors-chris-paul-opens-up-on-coming-off-the-bench-for-the-first-time-in-his-nba-career-20231031-BUS-82078.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231031_BUS_82078_Chris-Paul-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Coming off the bench will require an adjustment from Chris Paul, but the Golden State Warriors are confident in the veteran point guard and his determination to play within his new role.
" title="Warriors&apos; Chris Paul opens up on coming off the bench for the first time in his NBA career" publication_id="BUS#20231031#BUS#82078"></div>


<p>A great matchup is coming to the schedule for championship aspirants that should be see each other in the postseason. The<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> will encounter the<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers">Los Angeles Clippers</a></strong> at Crypto.com Arena in the<strong> 2023 NBA Season</strong>. Learn more about the date, time and TV channel to watch or livestream the match.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong><a href="https://www.fubo.tv/lp/StreamTV/stream-espn-disney-abc-online/?v=nbaonespn&amp;irad=950486&amp;irmp=3119684" rel="sponsored nofollow">[Watch Los Angeles Lakers vs Los Angeles Clippers for Free in the US on Fubo]</a></strong></p>



<p>The Lakers have started this season in an irregular way considering they have split results after four matchups. It’s true that they have played against promising teams, but in their favor, they defeated a really powerful team like the Phoenix Suns. In this span of games there is a player who hasn’t diminished his production like<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a></strong>, averaging 22 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists.</p>



<p>The Clippers have had a favorable set of matchups that they used to enjoy a nice start to the season. Despite commencing with a 2-1 record in three matches, the most important headline for the fans doesn’t have the schedule as the focus. This was finishing the uncertainty around roster acquisitions considering the were able to complete a trade for<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden">James Harden</a></strong> with the Philadelphia 76ers.</p>



<h2>When will Los Angeles Lakers vs Los Angeles Clippers be played?</h2>



<p>The Los Angeles Lakers will play the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2023 NBA Season this<strong> Wednesday, November 1</strong>. The game will be played at Crypto.com Arena.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/how-does-the-james-harden-trade-change-the-clippers-and-sixers-full-breakdown-20231031-BUS-82019.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231031_BUS_82019_James-Harden-8.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Now that James Harden has finally been traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, we beak down the future implications of this move for all parties involved.
" title="How the James Harden trade will reshape the NBA landscape" publication_id="BUS#20231031#BUS#82019"></div>


<h2>Los Angeles Lakers vs Los Angeles Clippers: Time by State in the US</h2>



<p><strong>ET:</strong> 10:00 PM<br><strong>CT:</strong> 9:00 PM<br><strong>MT:</strong> 8:00 PM<br><strong>PT:</strong> 7:00 PM</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/28094941/Kawhi-Leonard-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-71429" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Leonard</figcaption></figure>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6541ceecf2b571abd7e46d55" data-title="Who wins this Los Angeles rivalry matchup?" data-options="2"></div>


<h2>How to watch Los Angeles Lakers vs Los Angeles Clippers in the US</h2>



<p>The game between Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers in the 2023 NBA Season will be available to watch or live stream on <a href="https://www.fubo.tv/lp/StreamTV/stream-espn-disney-abc-online/?v=nbaonespn&amp;irad=950486&amp;irmp=3119684" rel="sponsored nofollow">Fubo (free trial)</a> in the US. ESPN is the other option.</p>


How to watch Los Angeles Lakers vs Los Angeles Clippers for FREE in the US: TV Channel and Live Streaming

How to watch Golden State Warriors vs Sacramento Kings for FREE in the US: TV Channel and Live Streaming

Warriors' Chris Paul opens up on coming off the bench for the first time in his NBA career

How to watch Los Angeles Lakers vs Los Angeles Clippers for FREE in the US: TV Channel and Live Streaming - Bolavip US

<p>After months of back and forth, <strong>Daryl Morey finally admitted defeat</strong>. The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> </strong>GM had no choice but to trade <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden </a></strong>away, and while it took him way more than it should’ve, it finally got done.</p>



<p>Harden was traded alongside <strong>P.J. Tucker and Filip Petrusev</strong> to the<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Clippers</a></strong> in exchange for <strong>Robert Covington, Marcus Morris Sr., KJ Martin, Nic Batum</strong>, a 2028 unprotected first-round pick, two second-round picks, a 2029 pick swap, and an additional first-round pick that will go to a third team, according to <strong>ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.</strong></p>



<p>While none of the players and assets involved in the deal should move the needle, this trade will have<strong> enormous implications for both teams involved and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> as a whole. </strong>With that in mind, we’ll break it down to try and explain what’s going to change for everybody.</p>



<h2>The Clippers Get A Star, Save Money</h2>



<p>At first glance, the Los Angeles Clippers went from a very good team to a championship contender. They already had two elite talents on their roster, such as <strong>Kawhi Leonard and Paul George,</strong> but their injury woes raised skepticism.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/28113409/jamesharden-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="James Harden" class="wp-image-20365" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>James Harden</figcaption></figure>



<p>Now, they have an elite plan B with Harden<strong> next to Russell Westbrook</strong>. Worst case scenario, they’ll still have two former All-Stars, depth, and a great coach weathering the storm. But if they manage to stay healthy, it’s hard to envision any team taking them down in a seven-game series.</p>



<p>Harden is also on an expiring deal, and with the contracts they’re getting in return, they <strong>could save up to $60 million in the offseason. </strong>That will allow them to either re-sign him if things go well or pursue another star in free agency. </p>



<h2>The Sixers Move On</h2>



<p>The Philadelphia 76ers <strong>may have won by subtraction.</strong> Harden didn’t want to be there, and all the drama and distractions weren’t doing this team any favors. They needed to move on from him months ago, and they could’ve even landed a better return.</p>



<p>Through the first three games of the season,<strong> they’ve already seen what Tyrese Maxey could give them as the primary ball-handler and secondary scorer next to Joel Embiid. </strong>He’s been stellar as a scorer, and his ability to push the break has helped them dominate in transition.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/28091515/Tyrese-Maxey-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Tyrese Maxey" class="wp-image-82023" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Tyrese Maxey </figcaption></figure>



<p>Embiid needs more stability, especially with all the rumors about his future and whether he wants to leave or not. The Sixers have a flurry of solid role players that can help him pick up the slack, <strong>and they can now focus solely on basketball.</strong></p>



<h2>This Is Harden’s Last Chance</h2>



<p>The NBA world will set all eyes on Harden and the Clippers. He’s been granted a trade<strong> for the third time in his last four years</strong>, and he won’t get another opportunity to handpick his next destination — outside of free agency, obviously.</p>



<p>There was a lot of chatter about how NBA teams were no longer interested in his services. He’s not getting any younger, and while everybody knows what he’s capable of as a scorer and playmaker, his history of insubordination, plus his questionable off-court habits,<strong> could drive multiple teams away.</strong></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/former-sixers-coach-doc-rivers-explains-what-may-have-upset-james-harden-20231025-BUS-80187.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231025_BUS_80187_James-Harden-and-Doc-Rivers.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Former Philadelphia 76ers head coach Doc Rivers gave some insight into what may have led to James Harden&apos;s frustration in the City of Brotherly Love.
" title="Former Sixers coach Doc Rivers explains what may have upset James Harden" publication_id="BUS#20231025#BUS#80187"></div>


<p>This is Harden’s <strong>last chance to get a big payday </strong>before retiring, not to mention his last chance to win a ring, at least as a primary contributor to a team. Now more than ever, his legacy will be on the line and under heavy scrutiny, and he cannot afford to disappoint the fans again.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6540fcb6f2b571abd7e46b8b" data-title="Who won the trade?" data-options="3"></div>

James Harden Traded to Clippers: What it Means for Both Teams

How does the James Harden trade change the Clippers and Sixers? Full breakdown - Bolavip US

How does the James Harden trade change the Clippers and Sixers? Full breakdown

<p>Only a year and a half after forcing his way out of the Brooklyn Nets, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden">James Harden</a></strong> decided to submit another trade request. This time, to get out of the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers">Philadelphia 76ers</a></strong>. <em>The Beard</em> opted into a player option in the offseason, but his intention was to sign a supermax extension. Things got ugly when the front office didn’t meet that expectation.</p>



<p>Harden has therefore made his priority to find a new team, but the Sixers <strong>have yet to move him. </strong>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-clippers">Los Angeles Clippers</a></strong> have been linked with the veteran guard for months, as they’re reportedly his preferred landing spot.</p>



<p>Philadelphia’s demands kept LA at bay, and it doesn’t look like that will change anytime soon. According to NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski of <em>ESPN</em>, the Clippers <strong>have decided not to trade for Harden in the near future</strong>.</p>



<p><em>“I’m told that is when the start of the season now, at least for the foreseeable future, the Clippers are stepping back from these trade talks about James Harden. <strong>They’re essentially pausing them,</strong>“</em> Woj said, via <em>SixersWire. “They have talked with Philadelphia for months about a trade. They’ve made their best offer for Harden and they are now going to start their season and see what this team looks like with a healthy Kawhi Leonard, a healthy Paul George.</em>“</p>



<p>Woj added that the Los Angeles-based franchised may re-engage in trade talks for the 34-year-old, but they’re <strong>not losing sleep</strong> over it. After all, the Clippers know <strong>there are not other suitors out there</strong>. That gives them leverage, especially if the season goes on and Harden is still stuck in the City of Brotherly Love.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/28093749/James-Harden-4-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="James Harden" class="wp-image-75404" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>James Harden</figcaption></figure>



<h2>James Harden is not participating in 76ers opening night</h2>



<p>Following a 10-day absence from the team to take care of a personal matter, Harden returned to practice on Wednesday. However, Nick Nurse said he <strong>won’t take part in the Sixers’ opening game</strong> of the season agains the Bucks on Thursday night.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/kenyon-martin-puts-james-harden-on-blast-over-sixers-drama-20231022-BUS-78785.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231022_BUS_78785_James-Harden-6.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Former NBA star Kenyon Martin criticized James Harden over his desire to leave another team despite not meeting their expectations on the court.
" title="Kenyon Martin puts James Harden on blast over Sixers drama" publication_id="BUS#20231022#BUS#78785"></div>


<p>According to Chris Haynes of <em>Bleacher Report</em>, Harden wanted to travel with the team anyway, but a security official <strong>denied him entry onto their plane</strong>. The 76ers will play their first two games of the 2023-24 season on the road. After their trip to Milwaukee, the team will travel to Toronto to play the Raptors on Saturday.</p>



<h2>Harden may have no option but to stay</h2>



<p>The Harden saga seems to bring all kinds of news every day except that he finally got traded, which makes one wonder <strong>where this situation will ultimately lead</strong>. The former MVP still belongs to the 76ers and has reported to training camp this summer.</p>



<p>The truth is that his market has been slim this offseason. The Miami Heat never seemed really interested in striking a deal, whereas the Houston Rockets were in the mix for a while before being ruled out. Other teams have been mentioned as hypothetical destinations, but <strong>no one made any serious progress.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="653ae496f2b571abd7e464d6" data-title="Should the 76ers run things back with Harden?" data-options="2"></div>


<p>If the Clippers finally give up on getting him in the foreseeable, Harden <strong>may have no option but to play for the Sixers again</strong>. His relationship with the front office might be beyond repair, but that doesn’t matter much. At the end of the day, Harden is still under contract in Philadelphia.</p>


NBA Rumors: Another team shuts the door on James Harden &#8211; report

NBA Rumors: Another team shuts the door on James Harden - report - Bolavip US

NBA Rumors: Another team shuts the door on James Harden – report

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