The Nets are facing a pivotal Game 5 at home against the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night with the series tied at 2-2, and with Kyrie Irving out with an ankle injury, superstar guard James Harden is reportedly making an effort to get himself cleared by doctors and become eligible to play.
Harden has not played in the series since aggravating a hamstring injury in Game 1. Nets coach Steve Nash said earlier this week that Harden has been “progressing in the right direction,” but noted that he still has a “gap” to overcome before he’s game-ready. With the Bucks surging back in the series, however, Harden clearly realizes the importance of Game 5.
On Tuesday, the Nets upgraded Harden from out to doubtful for Game 5, and ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Harden will test his injury in a shootaround.
Nets have upgraded James Harden to doubtful for Game 5.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 15, 2021
Harden is expected to test his hamstring in shoot-around today and has been determined to try and find a way to get cleared to play Game 5, sources tell ESPN. There are no guarantees on his status but Harden is trying to play with series 2-2. https://t.co/gYCTIKXXl8
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 15, 2021
Hours later, Shams Charania reported that, barring a setback, Harden “plans to play” in Game 5.
Nets‘ James Harden plans to play tonight in Game 5 vs. Milwaukee barring a setback in pregame warmups, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. He’s been upgraded to questionable.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 15, 2021
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