In a stunning conclusion to their playoff run, the Los Angeles Clippers faced a familiar foe in the Denver Nuggets, who handed them a decisive 120-101 defeat in Game 7 of their first-round series on Saturday night. This loss not only marked the end of the Clippers' season but also reignited discussions around James Harden's notorious playoff performances, particularly in elimination games.
The game began with a competitive first quarter, where the Nuggets led 26-21. However, the second quarter proved to be the turning point, as Denver outscored the Clippers by 16 points, establishing an 11-point lead by halftime. The Nuggets maintained this momentum throughout the game, ultimately advancing to the second round against the Oklahoma City Thunder, who recently swept the Memphis Grizzlies.
James Harden, who had previously showcased his scoring prowess with a stellar 28-point performance in Game 6, struggled significantly in Game 7. He finished with just seven points on 2-of-8 shooting, including a dismal 1-of-4 from three-point range. Despite contributing 13 assists and five rebounds, Harden's presence on the court was overshadowed by his -29 plus-minus rating, indicating the Clippers were outplayed during his time on the floor.
This latest playoff disappointment adds to Harden's controversial legacy, particularly regarding his performance in crucial games. Throughout his career, he has participated in seven Game 7s, now holding a 3-4 record. His averages in these high-stakes situations include 19.3 points, 7.9 assists, and 4.0 turnovers per game, but he has struggled with shooting, hitting only 35.5% from the field and a mere 22.4% from beyond the arc.
"I am not a system player, I am a system," Harden famously declared upon joining the Clippers, but his playoff performances have often told a different story. This Game 7 was a stark reminder of his past failures, with fans and analysts alike expressing disappointment and disbelief at his inability to deliver when it mattered most.
Harden's struggles have not gone unnoticed on social media, with fans taking to platforms to voice their frustrations. One fan humorously remarked, "James Harden in Game 7," accompanied by a meme from the show "Abbott Elementary," while another quipped, "Harden, we need you; our season is on the line!" These reactions highlight the growing narrative surrounding Harden's playoff performances, as many are left questioning his ability to perform under pressure.
The Clippers had entered the playoffs with high hopes, buoyed by a solid 50-32 regular-season record. Harden averaged 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds during the season, contributing significantly to the team's success. However, the postseason has been a different story, with his performance in Game 7 serving as a microcosm of his playoff woes.
For the Clippers, this loss marks another chapter in a long history of playoff disappointments. The franchise has yet to reach the NBA Finals, and the questions surrounding Harden's future with the team are now front and center. He holds a $36.3 million player option for next season, leaving the door open for various possibilities, including free agency or an extension.
The Nuggets' victory not only eliminates the Clippers but also sets the stage for an intriguing matchup against the Thunder. Nikola Jokic, who added 16 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists in Game 7, will lead Denver as they prepare to face Oklahoma City, a team they split the season series with 2-2.
Reflecting on the series, the Clippers had their moments, including a thrilling Game 6 victory that forced the decisive seventh game. However, the overarching narrative remains one of missed opportunities and underperformance in critical moments. The Clippers have been here before, most notably in the 2020 playoffs when they squandered a 3-1 series lead against the Nuggets, resulting in a historic collapse that saw head coach Doc Rivers lose his job.
As the Clippers regroup and assess their future, Harden's playoff reputation looms large. He has been a transformative player in the regular season, yet the postseason has often revealed a different side of his game. With Harden turning 36 this summer, the stakes are higher than ever. Will he rise to the occasion in the future, or will the narrative of playoff underperformance continue to define his legacy?
As the dust settles on this season, the Clippers must confront their reality: another early exit from the playoffs and the pressing need for change. The questions surrounding Harden's future and the team's direction will dominate the offseason discussions, as the franchise seeks to finally break through to the NBA Finals.
In the end, the Nuggets move on, while the Clippers face another long summer of reflection and uncertainty. The playoffs are unforgiving, and for James Harden, the quest for that elusive championship continues.
