“Big difference between winning and putting up numbers” - Kevin McHale unsurprised by James Harden’s newest drama with Daryl Morey
James Harden is renowned for getting whatever he wishes, but if that doesn't happen, the 10-time All-Star is better known for forcing his way toward his objective. It's safe to state that the 2017–18 MVP has been pushing for personnel changes ever since his time in Houston, and now it has come to a point where he labeled Daryl Morey as a ‘liar.’ Though this may be his master plan to villainize his way out of Philly, former NBA player Kevin McHale isn't shocked by the 'Beard's' most recent antics.
Former Rockets coach McHale witnessed Harden's ascent to success firsthand and the turmoil that comes with it. The three-time NBA champion mocked Harden on SiriusXM NBA Radio by pointing out the main reasons why Harden hasn't been successful in winning titles.
“There’s a big difference between winning and putting up numbers… averaging 20 a game is not hard if you shoot enough,” McHale continued. “I was like, ‘Man, that only lasts so long.’ And you’re not going to win if you don’t do the little things. Like… if you’re not a player that can go out and get defensive stops, then you better be a great team defender.”
James Harden and Kevin McHale’s history
Although some could argue that Kevin McHale was too severe in his assessment, Harden hasn't done anything to justify his commitment to winning a championship. Moreover, The Beard hasn't helped himself by failing to win a title, as various analysts over the years have criticized Harden's work ethic and ability to deliver in clutch time.
However, in case you weren't aware, McHale and Harden go way back. Harden demanded McHale's dismissal in 2016, pushing the limits of his influence with the Rockets. According to CBSSports, Harden allegedly 'pushed' the Houston Rockets to trade Dwight Howard and fire Kevin McHale simultaneously.
Considering the bad blood between the two, McHale pointed out that Daryl Morey only wanted to be careful in handling the Harden trade saga after witnessing James' lack of effort when he was Houston's general manager. Seems like it is only a fitting lesson to be learned for the 50-year-old.
Joel Embiid adds pressure on Sixers
The 14-year veteran guard has only felt appropriate to cause chaos after the Sixers and Los Angeles Clippers, which were his preferred destination, never came close to reaching a trade agreement.
The aftermath of Harden calling out Morey only encouraged Joel Embiid to take severe action. Fanatic NBA observers paid close attention to the fact that the 2022-23 MVP's Twitter page no longer lists Philadelphia as his current location. With the Sixers, ‘The Process’ has been through several storms, including Jimmy Butler and Ben Simmon's departure, Markelle Fultz's hype-ending injury, and even his GM sub-tweeting him. There is a legitimate danger of Embiid wanting to get out of this hot mess of a situation, and it seems like Harden's trade drama is putting enough pressure as it is.
On the other hand, it may be awhile before we see Harden in other threads since Daryl is as hardnosed as him. As a result, according to John Hollinger, things will only get worse before they get any better.
