The James Harden trade finally went down, and the 2018 NBA MVP was formally introduced at a press conference arranged by the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday, November 2. It was hardly surprising that the 34-year-old had choice words for the Philadelphia 76ers, complaining that he was on a leash.
However, it was James Harden's follow-up quote that got things even more interesting.
“I’m not a system player, I am a system.”
— Josh Reynolds (@JoshReynolds24) November 2, 2023
~ James Harden pic.twitter.com/LNAsv8S05j
"I'm not a system player. I am a system," Harden said.
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The 10-time All-Star tried to explain both quotes. As far as being on the leash, Harden stressed that he was a creator and needed someone who trusted and understood him.
"When I meant a leash, I don't mean just shooting the basketball every time. I meant, like, I think the game and I'm a creator on the court," the 3rd overall pick of the 2009 NBA Draft said via the Bleacher Report.
With the Sixers, Harden was handled by Doc Rivers. The 6-foot-5 guard was unable to perform freely under the one-time champion coach.
Will Harden be a problem for Lue?
Harden is undoubtedly one of the best players in the NBA. But his inability to stay happy on whichever team is suspect. Add the comments he recently made at the Clippers media conference; it will be interesting how Tyronn Lue will handle "The Beard" and his so-called own system.
Speaking to reporters, Lue mentioned sacrifice as the biggest thing to make it all work, the Associated Press reported.
"Four guys from LA, and four guys that have done a lot in their careers. So they understand, and they've talked about just winning a championship. That's all we're focused on. It's going to take a lot of sacrifice, whether it's shots, whether it's minutes. They're willing to do that," Lue quipped.
Handling four NBA superstars will be a lot for Lue to handle. Add the comments of Harden and his preferred system; it will be interesting how things will pan out for the Clips this season.
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