Clippers facing questions they can't ignore with James Harden back in focus
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James Harden attempted four shots after halftime as Cleveland fell 121-108 to New York in Game 3. The Knicks now lead the Eastern Conference Finals 3-0 and sit one win from the NBA Finals.
Donovan Mitchell shot 4-of-14 in the second half while Harden remained passive on the offensive end. Cleveland connected on just 12 of 41 three-point attempts in the defeat at Rocket Arena on Saturday.
The Cavaliers are on the brink of elimination, yet visible reactions from the organization have drawn sharp criticism online. Multiple analysts noted coach Kenny Atkinson smiling and laughing during his postgame press conference following the loss.
One Cavaliers player posted a casual photo collection on social media captioned “0-3” after the defeat. Critics widely viewed the posts as evidence of a team lacking urgency in a desperate situation.
Popular basketball account BGN Hoops posted that Cleveland’s roster is not serious about winning a championship this year. The post specifically called for Harden to be removed from the Cavaliers before next season begins.
James Harden draws playoff scrutiny again
Harden was acquired from the Clippers in a February deal that sent Darius Garland to Los Angeles. The trade was designed to push Cleveland toward a championship this spring.
Instead, his well-documented postseason struggles have resurfaced when Cleveland needs him most during this series. New York has now won 10 consecutive playoff games and appears destined for its first Finals since 1999.
Brunson scored 21 of his 31 points after halftime to seal the victory for New York. Mikal Bridges added 22 and OG Anunoby contributed 21 for the Knicks.
The Knicks displayed the kind of urgency the Cavaliers failed to match. “We have a bunch of individuals in that locker room who work really hard,” Brunson said. “When their number’s called and when it’s time to go, they’re ready.”
Cleveland’s looming elimination raises the same question about Harden that followed him from Houston to Brooklyn. The Clippers moved on from him, believing their championship window had already closed for good this time.
With Harden eligible for free agency this summer, his playoff performances will shape the terms of his next contract. Very few teams have ever recovered from a 3-0 series deficit in NBA playoff history.
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