It’s been nearly two weeks since acquiring James Harden and the Los Angeles Clippers remain winless during that stretch.
The Clippers have dropped six consecutive games since bringing on the former MVP and their most recent loss to the Denver Nuggets illustrated some of the flaws with their roster.
Los Angeles traded several of their wing players for Harden, though their biggest issue is their lack of size in the frontcourt.
Head coach Tyronn Lue tried a small-ball lineup to space the floor for the offense, but Nikola Jokic simply battered them down in the post area.
That problem isn’t Harden’s fault, but he hasn’t helped himself much given some of his defensive limitations and being forced to share the basketball with the other stars.
Vince Goodwill explained that Lue’s got a tough job trying to balance the lineups with Russell Westbrook and Harden as well as the overall health of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George via The Jim Rome Show.
.@VinceGoodwill on why Ty Lue is in such a tough spot managing the Harden Clippers. pic.twitter.com/sabtgnJ9Us
— Jim Rome (@jimrome) November 16, 2023
Goodwill emphasized he’s a believer in Lue’s ability to coach, but it would be tough for anyone to maneuver around injuries to stars like Leonard and George.
He also mentions trying to split up minutes between Westbrook and Harden is difficult because the former has shown an unwillingness to embrace a bench role.
With so much star power, it feels likely that the Clippers will eventually figure things out despite the negative perception so far.
Harden should look better as he gets into basketball shape, but if he’s on the downswing of his career then it could spell trouble for L.A.
NEXT: Terance Mann Speaks On The Differences Between 2 Clippers Stars