The James Harden–Joel Embiid duo is beginning to trigger main issues within the NBA, and persons are beginning to liken them to top-of-the-line duos in LA Lakers’ historical past.
Shaquille O’Neal partnered with younger Kobe Bryant in 1995 and 5 years later, they gained three consecutive championships. Whereas the Harden-Embiid combo will show to be a handful for opposing groups, it’s too quickly to check them to Shaq and Kobe.
On “The Massive Podcast with Shaq,” O’Neal mentioned Harden made everybody higher and was extra comfy being the No. 2 man in comparison with being No. 3 with the Brooklyn Nets. O’Neal maintained that it was nonetheless the honeymoon section for Harden and Embiid. O’Neal mentioned he must see how issues end up because the season progresses, particularly in the course of the playoffs.
When requested if he’d be prepared to crown Embiid and Harden the following Shaq and Kobe, and Massive Diesel wasted no time in refuting that assertion.
“No. No. Hell, no. Not after one 12 months. Me and Kobe had eight years of harm collectively. No, not even shut. Cease it. Pay attention, NO, H-NO, and F-NO.”
Shaq Daddy was not having it, because it was virtually disrespectful to place the Sixers duo, who’ve simply began enjoying collectively, in the identical dialog. Harden and Embiid have one thing good occurring, however solely time will inform how profitable they will turn out to be.
James Harden has blended in effectively along with his new group
It took about two weeks for James Harden to make his first look for the Sixers since becoming a member of the group on the Feb. 10 commerce deadline day. Nevertheless it was definitely worth the wait, because the Philly followers have been handled to spectacular performances from the three-time scoring champ.
Harden has been deadly offensively, making the precise reads and capturing at a excessive clip. In his three video games with the Sixers, he has averaged 27.3 factors, 12.3 assists and 9.0 rebounds whereas capturing 59%, together with 50% from past the arc.
James Harden’s first 3 games in Philly: 27.3 PPG9.0 RPG12.3 APG1.7 SPG59% FG50% 3PT89.7% FT 3-0 https://t.co/30BsHzyneU
The Sixers traded for Harden to supply elite-level help for Embiid, who’s enjoying at an MVP-caliber stage, and it’s understanding nice for them thus far. The Harden impact is being felt. Whereas he’s a dime-dropping delight, he has additionally taught just a few of his new teammates his famed step-back 3-pointer.
Additionally Learn
Article Continues under
With The Beard, the Sixers stand likelihood of constructing a deep playoffs run. For a lot of, something wanting a Finals look might be thought-about a bust.
