James Harden's historic performance gives Clippers something to celebrate

The Los Angeles Clippers have had a rough start to the 2025-26 season, but James Harden finally gave them something to celebrate on Saturday.

In a 131-116 win over the Charlotte Hornets (4-12, 12th in Eastern Conference), Harden scored 55 points, a Clippers franchise record. Hall of Fame center Bob McAdoo set the previous record (52 points) twice, in February 1974 and March 1976.

The 11-time All-Star was 17-of-26 from the court, including 10-of-16 from three-point range, while adding 11 free throws on 14 attempts.

James Harden's franchise-best game a potential sign of Clippers' changing fortune

The Clippers (5-11, 12th in Western Conference) have been among the league's most disappointing teams through the first month of the season. Per Basketball Reference, Los Angeles, which had a preseason over-under win total of 49.5 games, ranked No. 24 in net rating (-6.3) entering Saturday — No. 23 on offense (113.2) and No. 24 on defense (119.5).

While Harden has contributed to the team's defensive shortcomings, he's more than made up for it with what's becoming his best offensive campaign since he was with the Houston Rockets. Following his massive game against the Hornets, Harden is averaging 28.4 points per game on 46.1 percent shooting, including 40.8 percent from beyond the arc.