James Harden's sacrifice sets up Los Angeles Clippers' title push amidst Hakeem Olajuwon's praise
As an 11-time All-Star, 2018 MVP, and multiple All-NBA pick,
NBA
legend James Harden is unquestionably one of the most decorated players in NBA history. However, he's never taken home a ring.
Nevertheless, another NBA icon, Hakeem Olajuwon, now believes that he is a complete player.
During the June 2020 celebration of the 25th anniversary of the
Houston
Rockets' 1994-95 championship season, he opened up regarding the player's future.
James Harden's
contract move
and Hakeem Olajuwon's endorsement boost
Los Angeles Clippers
' title hopes
Despite their lackluster postseason performance,
James Harden
's nine-year relationship with the Houston Rockets was unique. After scoring thirty points while dozing off, he became a formidable offensive force that wowed Hakeem Olajuwon and other franchise icons.
He was a consistent contender for league MVP, winning the award in 2018. Later, Hakeem Olajuwon spoke out about the NBA player's skill and prospects.
In 2020, he said:
"It's very difficult to carry a team from that position, and he's proven that comfortably, reaching new heights. Look at his statistics. He's a player to the level of Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain. It's something unbelievable in this era. There's no question about James' ability as a champion.
I think it's just a matter of time. Any player you put with James Harden, it will work. Because James is such a complete player.
He's a winner, and he knows how to win.'
Meanwhile, James Harden might have gotten $50 million from the
Los Angeles Clippers
in exchange for his skills. However, he chose the early 40s over the $50 million club and agreed to a two-year, $81.5 million contract to help the franchise win this summer's free agency. As a result, the L.A.
Clippers' best chance to pursue the championship may have been subtly set up.
Sports Illustrated reported that according to team president Lawrence Frank:
"So, without James, we can't even get Brad, because we wouldn't have use of the full MLE. So that allowed us to get Brook and Brad because of the way James structured his contract. Two, the way he's structured his contract in year two gives us flexibility that if we want to have max space, we can choose to do so."
James Harden was in Philadelphia 76ers (Image via Facebook / @James Harde)
The Los Angeles Clippers might not have had a chance to win a championship if James Harden hadn't dropped his salary. Now, the
Western Conference
is on notice and the door is wide open because of his sacrifice.
Also read:
Bradley Beal joins Los Angeles Clippers after Phoenix Suns buyout, signs 2-year deal with player option
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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