James Harden, once again, is looking like the NBA superstar we’ve all come to appreciate.
The step-back three pointers are there, moreover, so is the burst in his step. When the nine-time NBA All-Star is rolling, it’s poetry in motion. For the Brooklyn Nets, the timing of Harden’s return to form couldn’t be any better.
On Monday night, Harden dropped 39 points, 15 assists, and 8 rebounds to lead the Nets to a 124-108 road win over the Los Angeles Clippers.
It was Harden’s second game back from the NBA’s health and safety protocols. He’s scored 36 and 39 points, respectively, it’s his first back-to-back 30-point games of the season.
Tuesday morning, the Nets received more good news with Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and LaMarcus Aldridge clearing health and safety protocols.
Brooklyn’s won seven of their last 10 games, and their role players have stepped up during this stretch. Now it appears All-Star help is on its way.
Durant, before having to be sidelined, has looked every bit the best player on the planet. Last season, the Nets were 6-2 with Durant, Irving, and Harden on the floor together. In that small sample size, the trio averaged 64 points, justifying how dangerous they are in the same lineup.
We already know what Durant brings to the table, and once Kyrie gets his legs under him — even in a part-time role, he’s still must-see viewing. Harden, however, is the engine that makes it all go for Brooklyn.
His playmaking and ability to get to the basket opens up the offense for Brooklyn. With Harden looking and feeling good again, the offense appears primed for an explosion.
In what’s been a challenging season for the NBA, the Nets (23-9) are holding their own at the top of the Eastern Conference. But Chicago and Milwaukee — yes, the Bulls are for real — are making their presence felt.
The Nets will need all the firepower they can get to hold off a competitive field. A healthy Harden back to his playmaking ways is a must for Brooklyn to reach their goals.
Image: Jae C. Hong, Staff, AP
