Russell Westbrook explains the top misconception of James Harden

Russell Westbrook says James Harden is misunderstood with regards to the way he plays, and if it’s beneficial for players around him.

In an interview with GQ‘s Mark Anthony Green published Tuesday, Houston Rockets guard Russell Westbrook explains what he sees as the biggest misconception regarding co-star James Harden.

The interview primarily focuses on the MVP duo’s fashion habits, with Westbrook and Harden sharing the cover of the March magazine. But there’s also plenty of basketball talk and self-reflection, as well.

Regarding the biggest misconception about Harden, Westbrook said:

I think it has to do with the way he plays, and if it’s beneficial for people around him. I know his intentions and understand his game. Like if you’re able to score and do what you want at will, then you should be able to do it. You know what I’m saying? If you ask other basketball players, they’d be like, “Well, we can’t guard him.” So that’s why we [let him play the way he does].

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Later in the interview, Harden was asked how he felt about criticisms that his style of play could limit his team’s productivity.

Harden’s response:

So you look at Shaquille O’Neal, Tim Duncan, Michael Jordan…they ISO’d, right? Tim Duncan and Shaq were big men, so they ISO’d in the post. It’s the same thing as ISO’ing on the wing. The object is to draw a double team, create an opportunity for your teammates, and get them an open shot. Well, my ISO’s at the top of the floor. And now we get double teams, triple teams. And all different types of defenses to be able to try to guard us. Well, it’s the same thing. We’re at the top of the floor for the ISO, and I get a double team and I swing it, we get an open shot. When Tim Duncan posted up, they double-teamed him, he kicked it out, swing, open three to his teammate. “Oh, that’s good offense.” Well, it’s the same thing.

Harden leads the NBA with a 35.3 points per game scoring average this season, along with 7.3 assists. Meanwhile, Westbrook is averaging 27.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 7.2 assists. They’re the league’s top-scoring duo, and are currently on pace to become the first pair of teammates in NBA history to each average at least 25 points and seven assists.

Harden, Westbrook, and the rest of the Rockets (34-20) return to action after the extended All-Star break on Thursday at Golden State (12-43).

That game tips off at 9:30 p.m. Central, with an exclusive national broadcast on TNT. Houston enters having won five of seven games.

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