(Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
When the Los Angeles Clippers traded for James Harden, fans and analysts tried to predict how his new role would play out.
Joining a team with three existing All-Stars could prove challenging, especially in finding a viable role on the team.
Harden’s first game with the Clippers was on November 6th, a loss to the New York Knicks.
He scored 17 points in this debut, also logging six assists and three rebounds.
While this was a positive debut for Harden, it led fans and reporters to ask about other player’s roles moving forward.
Kawhi Leonard was asked if he was lost on offense with Harden on the team, responding, “We have guys that can score the ball.”
Kawhi Leonard was asked if he got lost offensively in the newness of having James Harden.
Kawhi: “No. It’s gonna be like that. We have guys that can score the ball. Won’t be the only one. I just gotta be ready when my opportunity comes.” pic.twitter.com/0zm4Dy7ew6
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) November 7, 2023
At least publically, Leonard seemed unbothered with a smaller role on offense, especially if his new teammate is playing well.
He added, “I just gotta be ready when my opportunity comes.”
The landscape of an NBA team can change in an instant based on how an opposing team matches up.
For some teams, Leonard’s skillsets might lend themselves to a bigger night, leaving Harden a smaller role.
The inverse can also be true, which was put on display against the Knicks.
How will this balance shake out for the rest of the season?
Veteran players tend to sit out games or be on minute restrictions to help preserve them for the offseason.
It remains to be seen how the Clippers will balance this load given the number of talented players they employ on their roster.
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