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James Harden’s debut was precisely what the Philadelphia 76ers and their followers dreamed of.
The veteran goalkeeper made a exhibiting within the 133-102 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves at Goal Middle Friday night time, ending the sport with 27 factors, eight rebounds, and 12 assists. Nonetheless, he believes the workforce nonetheless has work to do.
“Tonight was an incredible begin, however now we have an extended method to go,” Harden reporters after successful. “We’ll do no matter it takes day by day to construct the precise habits, so we’re prepared when the time is correct.”
hardening added: “I’m prepared to do something. We’ve one widespread aim. I’ve nothing to show individually. As a unit, I feel now we have one thing to show.”
Harden’s affect on the squad was evident, as Joel Embiid and Teresi Maxi mixed 62 factors, 12 rebounds and 5 assists.
Embiid additionally stated after the win that Friday’s match was the “most open” ever in his profession, because of Harden’s shot making skill.
“This was most likely the most important opening ever in my profession,” Embiid stated. “I had loads of straightforward baskets. I used to enter all the things, however within the fourth quarter, having the ability to make photographs, create the shot… it’s best to have seen my face. I used to be like, ‘I by no means get that,’ nothing It is near it. So, I hope it continues.”
Maxi additionally commented on Harden’s impression, praising his “skill to cross the ball”. Moreover, he said that Harden is difficult working and devoted.
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Therese Maxi is so completely happy he would not have to protect James Harden’s footsteps anymore 😅😭 pic.twitter.com/jaZHWYlNCn
The 76ers acquired Harden from the Brooklyn Nets on the commerce deadline earlier this month in alternate for Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, Andre Drummond and two first-round draft picks. The 2017-18 League Participant of the 12 months wasn’t in a position to make his Philly debut till Friday as a consequence of a hamstring harm.
If Harden can keep wholesome, he and Embiid ought to be the most effective duo within the NBA and hard to play in opposition to within the post-season.
With Friday’s win, the Sixers got here near taking the lead within the Japanese Convention. They’re now solely 2.5 video games behind the first-placed Miami Warmth, with a 36-23 rating. The Harden and the 76ers will probably be trying to construct on their efficiency on Sunday in opposition to the New York Knicks at Madison Sq. Backyard.
