Ohm YoungmisukESPN Staff Writer5 Minute Read
Harden: ‘I’m not a system player, I am a system’
Newly acquired Clippers guard James Harden clarifies his comments of being on a “leash” in Philadelphia.
PLAYA VISTA, Calif. — James Harden said he sacrificed millions along with his playing style, which he said was “on a leash” during his stint with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Harden explained how he attempted to adapt to the needs of the team in Philadelphia, but the 76ers’ front office ultimately did not want him. Now a member of the Clippers, he aims to change public opinion and demonstrate that he remains an elite player who can excel alongside Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Russell Westbrook, ultimately winning a championship.
During his introductory news conference at the Clippers’ facility, Harden provided insight into his time in Philadelphia.
“I made the decision to take a $26 million pay cut in order to improve the team,” Harden stated. “I altered my role, despite media claims that I am ball-dominant. However, my approach to the game is highly effective. But those efforts to change the narrative and sacrifice for the sake of winning at the highest level are seldom discussed. Instead, other irrelevant matters receive attention.
“After leaving Brooklyn, I believed I would retire as a Sixer, but the front office had different plans. They did not want me. There are numerous false narratives and opinions circulating, but none of them are true.”
Harden completed his first workout as a Clipper on Thursday and is on track to make his debut for the team against the New York Knicks on Monday at Madison Square Garden. Clippers coach Ty Lue has a four-day break to integrate Harden and P.J. Tucker into his offensive strategies before they embark on a three-game road trip in New York.
With the Clippers, Harden hopes to play with more freedom and showcase his true playing style under Lue’s guidance. He expressed feeling restricted during his time in Philadelphia, unable to fully exhibit his offensive abilities while playing alongside Joel Embiid.
Harden clarified that being “on a leash” does not solely refer to the number of shots he was taking.
“On the court, I consider myself a creator of the game,” Harden emphasized. “I need to have the ability to engage in dialogue with a coach who trusts me, understands me, and allows for adjustments throughout games. I am not a player who simply fits into a system; rather, I am a system myself. Someone who can collaborate with me, comprehend my style, and adapt on the fly during games is what truly matters to me. Scoring points is not my sole focus – I have already achieved that.”
The Clippers see Harden as someone who can elevate their game and make an even bigger impact alongside Leonard and George. Harden, Leonard, George, and Westbrook have all discussed the importance of sacrificing personal statistics to come together and help the Clippers secure their first NBA title. Having experienced success in similar situations, these four stars will need to share the ball and work cohesively as a team.
One common bond they share is their Southern California upbringing and their desire to accomplish something special together.
“I’m back home,” said Harden, who attended Artesia High School in Lakewood, California. “Being around family and playing with some really, really talented players on this team provides me with a sense of comfort. All four of us are from California, and that makes this narrative unique. It just made sense to come together.”
This will be the third time Harden and Westbrook team up, following their previous collaborations in Oklahoma City and Houston.
“I have known Russ since our time at the Boys and Girls Club in LA,” Harden revealed. “Our relationship extends far beyond basketball. He played a significant role in my decision to join the Clippers. He feels he has something to prove as well. We have a common goal we want to achieve, and what better way to do it than together in LA.”
Harden drew parallels between the Clippers and his experience with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving in Brooklyn, which unfortunately ended due to injuries.
“I found myself in a similar situation in Brooklyn, where you have two players who can score the basketball and create mismatches with defenses,” Harden explained. “I am comfortable with both on-ball and off-ball play. I can thrive in pick-and-roll situations as well as catch-and-shoot opportunities. We have exceptional coaches and selfless players.
“I believe I can contribute both as a scorer and as a skilled passer. So, I possess the ability to facilitate.”
Harden is excited to prove himself with the Clippers.
“Everything,” Harden responded when asked what he has to prove. “I want to demonstrate that I am an elite player capable of fitting in with any team and pursuing a championship.
“We are all on the same page, focused on our shared goal. I think everyone knows what that goal is.”
