3 takaways from Harden’s debut: Efficient scoring
While his playmaking is surely something to behold, Harden’s scoring was something to behold as well. Scoring 27 points on just 12 field goal attempts isn’t an easy task for any star player, but in this game he did it with ease.
Harden wasn’t trying to force the offense. He took high percentage shots or was able to get to foul. It’s hard to fathom that he and Embiid combined for 22 foul shots attempted and made 19 of those shots.
Harden looked like the player he was when he played for the Houston Rockets. Not only was it clear he was able to lose weight since arriving from the Brooklyn Nets, his ability to create high percentage shots off the dribble has never looked better.
back to back. ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/IEV0Zufh3I
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) February 26, 2022
Overall, this is the type of scorer the Philadelphia 76ers need Harden to be. Embiid can and should be the primary option with Harden being a very efficient secondary scoring option. The fact he came into this game and has looked like he’s been a part of this offense for the whole season is a very positive sign.