James Harden Survives Charles Barkley’s Cold Harsh Truth

While Harden had been scoring buckets throughout the series, Barkley’s statements stemmed from the fact that he was rather inconsistent as the Raptors returned from a 2-1 deficit.

The 36-year-old averaged 21.0 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.2 rebounds in the first six games. But Barkley and Shaq’s frustration seems valid, as Harden went from scoring 28 in the first game to shooting 5-of-14 in Game 6.

Nonetheless, Harden and the Cavs had the last laugh, winning Game 7 at home, closing the series.

Harden registered 18 points with 3-of-9 shooting and 1-of-5 from beyond the arc. He went to the line 13 times, scoring 11 of them.

The 36-year-old also had a great time playmaking, finishing with 6 boards, 3 assists, and 3 steals to his name.

Harden had help from both Donovan Mitchell and Jarett Allen, who scored an essential 22 points each to keep the box score ticking. The Cavaliers extend their 5-0 record against the Raptors at Rocket Arena.

With this context, Harden may beat his “big game stigma” and Barkley’s comments, but he did have help from his teammates.

But the Cavs’ journey does not get any easier in the Eastern Conference, as they now clash with the No. 1 seed.

James Harden and Cavaliers Set to Face Detroit Pistons in the Second Round

Both Cavs and the Pistons fans breathed a sigh of relief after their teams took the upper hand in their respective Game 7s.

While both teams enter the Eastern Conference Semifinals with a similar pathway, the Pistons might be in for a challenge should the stardom of Harden, Mitchell, Allen, and Evan Mobley topple the No. 1 seed.

However, the Cavs have also shown their irregularities, like being unable to win games on the road.

The teams split the season series 2-2, with no clear favorite emerging to win yet. Fans will be preparing for an intense matchup as the Pistons host the Cavaliers on Tuesday night.