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James Harden admires LA Clippers star for bringing a ‘different dynamic’ that was ‘missing’ last season
Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

James Harden’s 20 points and 13 assists helped the Los Angeles Clippers beat the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday.

Harden, Kawhi Leonard (30 pts), and Ivica Zubac (21 pts) continue to look like one of the best big threes in the NBA.

Meanwhile, the Clippers also have an elite supporting cast, having made some significant offseason additions.

They signed Bradley Beal, Brook Lopez, and Chris Paul in free agency and traded for John Collins over the summer.

After defeating the Trail Blazers, Harden praised one new signing for bringing a “different dynamic” to the Clippers.

Photo by Eakin Howard/Getty Images

James Harden commends Brook Lopez after LA Clippers win vs Trail Blazers

James Harden had plenty to say about Brook Lopez after the Clippers’ win against the Blazers.

He highlighted Lopez’s impact on both sides of the floor as the reason why he has been such a valuable addition.

The big man only scored five points on Sunday, but he had more blocks (3) than any other player in just 12 minutes.

“He brings a different dynamic to the table on both ends of the ball, which is something that we’ve been missing. He does an unbelievable job,” Harden explained.

“Tonight, he had a few really good blocks above the rim, which is huge for us. Those are game-changers right there. Then, there are going to be nights when he hits five or six threes.

“He’s a vet who’s won a championship before. At the end of the day, it’s all about winning for us, and tonight was a great example of that.”

James Harden and Kawhi Leonard ‘appreciate’ Brook Lopez’s personality

A reporter then mentioned to Harden that Kawhi Leonard had previously described Lopez as “funny.”

Harden agreed with Leonard’s take and explained why Lopez’s personality is an important asset for the Clippers.

“He’s gonna curse you out,” he said. “His personality is different, but it’s great for our team. He has a great personality.

“When he’s mad, he’s gonna let you know he’s mad. We appreciate him. We’re happy he’s on our side now.”

Lopez’s leadership could be particularly important in the postseason, when the Clippers look to make their first-ever NBA Finals.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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