(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Fans of the Philadelphia 76ers were elated after their team’s performance in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
But they were not feeling that way after Game 2.
The Boston Celtics breezed past the Sixers on Wednesday night, dominating them, 121-87, to even the series, 1-1.
Some of the heroes who shined so brightly for the 76ers on Monday looked radically different on Wednesday.
James Harden, for example, only scored 12 points in Game 2, which is painful when you compare it to his 45 in Game 1.
Skip Bayless took him to task, tweeting, “I should’ve known: James Harden went from 45 points to 2-14 and 0-6 from three. From ‘Houston Harden’ back to Jim Harden.”
I should’ve known: James Harden went from 45 points to 2-14 and 0-6 from three. From “Houston Harden” back to Jim Harden.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) May 4, 2023
It’s not surprising to see Bayless strike out against Harden after such a poor showing.
Yet, many people assumed that the 10-time All-Star wouldn’t be as explosive in Game 2 as he was in the opening game.
Fans were hoping that other players on the team, such as Tobias Harris, Tyrese Maxey, and especially returning league MVP Joel Embiid, would pick up the slack and secure a victory even if Harden’s numbers were a bit more human.
Instead, everyone had troubles and there was no saving the Sixers.
Harden should still be commended for his big night at the start of the series.
But if Philadelphia wants to win this round against the Celtics, they will need him to step up again.
In fact, the entire roster will need to push themselves harder.
This was Philadelphia’s first loss of the postseason, and it was a painful one.
But perhaps it’ll serve as a wake-up call for Harden and the rest of his team.
The post Skip Bayless Has Harsh Words For James Harden After Game 2 Loss appeared first on The Cold Wire.