Vince Carter questions Clippers' decision to acquire James Harden
The Los Angeles Clippers have enjoyed a strong start to the season. Russell Westbrook is playing his best basketball in more than two years. Yet, the front office decided to acquire James Harden in a deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. The Clippers now have another ball-dominant mouth to feed.
Former NBA star Vince Carter doesn't understand the need for the trade. Speaking on a recent episode on FanDuel TV's "Run It Back," the 22-year-veteran questioned why the Clippers would add Harden.
"There's no way Harden comes off the bench," Carter said. "But Russ has been playing great basketball, and that's what you want. I mean, why rock the boat when you don't have to? I thought the Clippers were playing great basketball...I'm interested to see who goes to the bench, and do you want to start those four? ..I'm trying to keep those guys happy and healthy. Those are my two concerns for the Clippers."
Westbrook is the biggest loser in the deal. He's finally back in a role where he can play to his strengths. Now, with Harden entering the rotation, Westbrook will have less of the ball. His role will morph into something similar to what we saw with the Los Angeles Lakers. Westbrook could struggle. Of course, Westbrook and Harden have played together before. They know how to operate as part of a unit.
Yet, there are still two All-Star wings who need the ball in their hands, too. At first glance, this trade feels like overkill for a Clippers team that has started the season strong. Of course, if the trade works out and everybody performs at an elite level, the Harden deal is a shrewd move. But if it doesn't, the Clippers may have finessed themselves out of a potential championship run.
A lot depends on how the players react to each other on the court. There has to be a selflessness between the four stars. Ty Lue has a difficult task on his hands. Fortunately for him, he's dealt with scenarios like this before. If any coach can make the Clippers new-look roster work, it's him.
Nevertheless, Carter is right; there was no need to rock the boat.
More must-reads: