PHILADELPHIA–In recent seasons, the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets ran into each other in the NBA Playoffs. The two teams met in the 2015 and 2018 Western Conference finals, in Round 1 in 2016, and in Round 2 in 2019.
The Warriors had to contend with James Harden who was the leader of the Rockets at the time and Golden State found a way to defeat him all four times. The Warriors just had more talent than those Rockets teams despite the presence of Harden so it made sense why they were able to do so.
Now with the Philadelphia 76ers, Harden is looking to overcome those past playoff failures and guide this team to an NBA title.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr has been tasked with coming up with game plans to defend Harden in the past and on Friday, he discussed what makes the future Hall of Fame guard so unique and special.
“Just the combination of his ability to get to the rim and shoot that step back 3,” said Kerr. “He’s so physically strong, he’s got such a great handle on the ball, he’s a brilliant passer. He’s going to get his points and assists and he’s going to control the game, but you just got to make it as tough as possible on him. He’s just a great, great player.”
Harden and the Sixers were able to knock off the Warriors on Friday for their fourth straight win on this homestand. They will be looking to keep the win streak going when they host the Toronto Raptors on Monday.
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