The Los Angeles Clippers have recently experienced a remarkable upturn in form, securing 13 victories in their last 15 games, including a consecutive four-game winning streak. This impressive run has propelled them up the Western Conference standings, highlighted by their latest triumph, a 131-122 victory over the Phoenix Suns during Wednesday’s NBA action.
James Harden, a key figure in the Clippers’ resurgence, addressed the early criticisms surrounding his move to the team. Speaking to the media, Harden emphasized his confidence in the fit from the outset despite initial struggles. He pointed out the silence of early critics now that the team is performing well, stressing their focus on continuous improvement and their ultimate goal.
“Fit is great. I knew that from the beginning, and it’s one of the reasons why I wanted to be a part of this,” Harden told reporters. “Obviously, it didn’t start off well. So many people was — it gave people so much to talk about in a negative way — and now those people that were talking are nowhere to be found. Like, literally nowhere to be found. Which we knew that was going to happen.
“But for us, I think it’s just focusing on this team and getting better every single day and focusing on the main goal.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers Updates
Harden’s performance has been a significant factor in the Clippers’ success. After a challenging start, he found his rhythm in December, averaging 20.0 points, 9.6 assists, and 5.2 rebounds and impressively shooting 43.3 percent from the three-point line. His resurgence, alongside stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, has re-established the Clippers as a formidable force.
Leonard’s outstanding play has been particularly notable, with the team winning all of his last 11 starts. This streak has helped the Clippers reach a 21-12 record, placing them fourth in the Western Conference and three games behind the top-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves.
In contrast, the Clippers’ local rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, have struggled despite winning the NBA In-Season Tournament. The Lakers have lost three consecutive games and eight of their last ten in the regular season, barely clinging to the tenth seed.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers Updates
Meanwhile, Harden’s former team, the Philadelphia 76ers, has thrived in his absence. Tyrese Maxey’s rise to All-Star status has been a critical factor in their success. Despite initial doubts, the trade that brought Harden to the Clippers benefited both teams significantly.
