[Saba Sports News] According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, James Harden, the newest addition to the Clippers, is set to make his debut for the team in Monday’s game against the New York Knicks.
Charania also reports that the Clippers intend to include Harden in their starting lineup alongside Russell Westbrook, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and Ivica Zubac going forward. This was the Clippers’ anticipated strategy from the start, but it presents a distinctive challenge with four players accustomed to ball dominance in the same starting five.
However, Leonard and George, known for their mid-post and three-point scoring, have expressed their desire for a true point guard to facilitate their scoring opportunities. Westbrook has adapted to this role reasonably well during his time with the Clippers, even adjusting his game to contribute off the ball while the other stars handle possessions.
The newcomer, Harden, adds an intriguing dynamic, as one of the most prolific isolation players in history. Yet, Harden led the league in assists last year and appears to be shifting away from high-volume scoring as he ages. The Clippers still have some variables in play, such as the return of Terance Mann from injury, and Harden’s comments about his fit in LA have raised questions.
Nonetheless, the current plan is for all four stars to be part of the starting lineup, with support from players like Bones Hyland, Norman Powell, and Mason Plumlee to generate offense off the bench.