Harden surprises everyone: “We’re better than the Knicks”
James Harden reacts to the Cavaliers’ elimination against the Knicks and defends his playoff performance. His comments about the gap between the two teams have sparked debate
The Cleveland Cavaliers’ season came to an end in the worst possible way. A crushing 130-93 loss in Game 4 against the New York Knicks completed a decisive sweep in the Eastern Conference Finals, ending the title hopes of the Ohio franchise.
Among the most anticipated players was obviously James Harden, but his performance was difficult to digest: just 12 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists, while shooting 2-for-8 from the field, 0-for-6 from three and committing five turnovers.
Despite the criticism directed at him over the last few weeks, the former MVP chose to defend his contribution to the team.
Harden defends his postseason
Speaking with reporters after the game, Harden explained that he doesn’t evaluate his impact solely through points scored.
I think I did a pretty good job. I don’t judge my performances based on shots made. I came here to fill the team’s needs, be solid defensively, create opportunities for my teammates and fit into an already established system
James Harden
Obviously I could’ve been better. I always believe I can improve, but one thing is certain: I work hard, and sometimes things just don’t go the way you want
James Harden
According to Harden, his experience allows him to influence games even when his shot isn’t falling.
I try to impact the game in other ways. I knew this team could win even on nights when I wasn’t scoring much, and we saw that happen during the season
James Harden
The quote that got everyone talking
If Harden’s self-assessment already raised some eyebrows, his comments about the Knicks created even more controversy.
Despite suffering a clear 4-0 sweep, the Cavaliers guard said he still believes Cleveland is the better team.
Honestly, I think we’re the better team. The series obviously didn’t show that, but that’s what I believe
James Harden
A surprising statement considering the dominance New York displayed throughout the series.
When asked to explain further, Harden said Cleveland never truly had the chance to play its best offensive basketball.
We never played even one quarter of our best offensive basketball. That’s the most frustrating part. Throughout the year we showed that we could play at a very high level
James Harden
According to the former Rockets, Nets, and 76ers star, defense wasn’t the main issue.
Against a team that’s this good offensively, you can only get so many stops. If you don’t make your shots, you’re not beating anybody
James Harden
Future still in Cleveland?
Beyond his on-court comments, Harden also addressed his future. The 36-year-old has a $42.3 million player option for next season and will have until July 1 to decide whether to exercise it.
His comments left little doubt about his intentions.
I 100% hope to be back next season
James Harden
A reasonable stance both from a contractual perspective and because of his role within the team. Harden didn’t arrive in Cleveland as the unquestioned centerpiece of the project, and being overly critical of the roster could have created unnecessary tension.
Still, his comments have fueled plenty of discussion. At a moment when many observers have questioned his performances in the series, hearing him call his postseason positive and insist that the Cavaliers are better than the Knicks despite a 4-0 sweep is likely to keep the debate going for quite some time.