UPDATE: The LA Clippers are on a remarkable surge, winning their fourth consecutive game with a 119-105 victory over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night at the Intuit Dome. Following this latest triumph, superstar James Harden expressed confidence that the Clippers can “come all the way back” into playoff contention.
Just weeks ago, the Clippers were languishing at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a dismal record of 6-21. Now, with 11 wins in their last 13 games, they boast the best record in the NBA during that stretch. Harden, speaking to ESPN, emphasized the importance of building momentum as the team approaches the critical All-Star Weekend, scheduled for February 13-15.
“Some teams, when it gets that bad, they just let the wheels fall off,” Harden said, reflecting on the team’s early struggles. “The losses are frustrating, but the confidence is still there. We can come all the way back, but we have to chip away and really build some momentum going into the All-Star break.”
The Clippers currently sit just half a game behind the Memphis Grizzlies for the 10th spot in the play-in tournament. With Harden and teammate Kawhi Leonard both emerging as strong candidates for the All-Star Game, the stakes are high. Leonard has been on fire, averaging 32.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.6 steals during the Clippers’ impressive 11-2 stretch.
“Once I see him flip the switch, it was like, ‘OK, yeah, it’s time to go,'” Harden said about Leonard’s performance. “My job is just to facilitate and get us going. It’s just been a complete 180.”
Additionally, in a personal milestone, Harden recently surpassed Shaquille O’Neal to claim the ninth spot on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, a moment he cherishes deeply as a Los Angeles native who grew up idolizing O’Neal and other Lakers legends.
“That was a surreal moment just because as a kid growing up watching Kobe [Bryant] and Shaq, it’s unreal for real,” Harden remarked.
Despite the Clippers’ rocky start, Harden remains committed to his hometown franchise. “Being at home, that’s like the opportunity of a lifetime for me,” he stated, dispelling any rumors about wanting to leave. “I can’t get caught up in what people talk about. I’m from L.A. and I’m blessed to be here.”
The Clippers aim to sustain their momentum and continue climbing the standings, with their next matchup crucial for maintaining playoff hopes. Fans are eager to see if Harden and Leonard can lead the team to further victories as the season progresses.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Clippers push toward the postseason.
