Philadelphia had the opportunity to sign Harden directly this summer, but they still pushed for a trade with the Nets at the deadline window. While Harden promised to execute on next season's contract options, they only had a one-plus-plus championship window, with Philadelphia sending Simmons, Curry Jr. and Drummond Jr. in the deal, as well as two first-round picks.
It can be said that this time the 76ers gave everything for Harden. So the question is, what can Harden, who has high hopes, bring to this team?
1. Singles ability and outside projection ability
As the best point guard in the post-Kobe league, Harden has won the leading scorer award many times, and he can easily cut 30 points in a game. He is a master of singles with the ball, whether in the Rockets or the Nets period, singles with the ball is a major part of his offense, he is very good at creating fouls, although this season has declined, but the average of 8 free throws per game is still at the top of the league; in addition, Harden's projection ability can not be underestimated, especially the retreat of three points, even this season, he can still average 2.3 three-pointers per game. Harden's arrival will add an offensive strength point to the 76ers, and his combination of inside and outside Embiid is enough to put the free throw line to rest.
2. Organize the series
Although he plays as a shooting guard on the court, Harden's organizational ability can not be ignored. In fact, for most of his career, Harden played with the ball, his passing vision was outstanding, he averaged 6.7 assists per game in his entire career, and in 3 seasons he averaged double-digit assists per game. Considering that Simmons has not played in the past period of time, Harden's organizational tandem will undoubtedly complement the team.
3. Add a passer to Embiid
Over the past two seasons, we've seen Embiid grow, as an interior player with the ball-holding offensive skills comparable to that of an outside player, he can make a retreat jump shot near the three-point line, and he can also lean back after a low pressure... But if he can add a blocker like Harden, it may make his offensive end easier. Harden had partnered capela during the Rockets period, and he could help such an inside rough guy take off, just imagine, Capela became Embiid, the picture is unimaginable.
4. Add a basket attacker
Harden's offensive ability to hold the ball is very good, as long as he is on the court, he will spare no effort to attack the basket, he can both finish himself and have a broad passing vision. Compared to Embiid, his passing awareness is even better, Harris, Sable, Maxi, Green... They all need Harden to deliver the shells. Compared to Embiid's more individual offense, Harden will bring more overall offense to the 76ers.
So the question is, do you think Harden's addition will help the 76ers achieve their goal of winning the championship?