Overview
- ESPN's Brian Windhorst relayed that anonymous Clippers scouts say Harden is not in great shape entering the season.
- Harden averaged 6.0 points on 36.8% shooting with 7.7 assists and 3.3 rebounds across three preseason starts.
- The 36-year-old is coming off an All-Star, All-NBA campaign with 22.8 points and 8.7 assists, and he has a history of playing into peak form.
- The Clippers have veteran backcourt options in Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, and Kris Dunn who can cover early minutes if needed.
- Los Angeles opens Wednesday against the Jazz, and analysts warn a sluggish start could undercut contender ambitions given Kawhi Leonard's uncertainty.