Clippers backcourt core: Holding the ball less will improve my efficiency, but the specific situation needs to be observed

The Los Angeles Clippers conducted daily training activities. After the training, the team's backcourt core James Harden accepted an interview with reporters on the sidelines. During the interview, he was also asked about the specific actions taken by the Clippers to reduce the load on players.

In this regard, Harden said: This may require further observation. This means that I will get more opportunities to catch and shoot, and my number of ball-handling offenses may also be reduced accordingly, and I am often very efficient in this type of offense. Now we have more players on the team who can handle the ball and more teammates who can put pressure on the opponent's defense on the offensive end. The situation last year can be said to be completely different from this year. From the beginning of last season, we were forced into a situation that required me to shoulder a heavier offensive load. I hope this year's situation will be different. I believe that if I can appropriately reduce the proportion of my ball-handling offense and create more opportunities for my teammates, I can show higher efficiency, which will be good news for myself and the team. Next, let's continue to take a look and see if there will be any corresponding changes and adjustments in the team's tactical system and play style.

In the NBA regular season last season, Harden played a total of 79 times in 82 games, averaging 35.3 minutes per game. He averaged 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, 8.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. He also had 4.3 turnovers and 2.1 fouls. He shot 41% from the field and 3 from the three-point range. 5.2%, and the free throw percentage was 87.4%. In the playoffs, Harden played a total of 7 times, averaging 39.4 minutes per game, averaging 18.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, 9.1 assists, 1.3 steals and 1 block. He also had 3 turnovers and 2.3 fouls. He shot 43.6% from the field, 36.4% from the three-point range, and 81.8% from the free throw line.

Harden's playing time last season was indeed high, and it continued to increase as the season progressed. The team lacked a reliable ball-handling core in the second team. In the second half of the season, after sending away Kevin Porter Jr., there was not even a qualified backup point guard. In the playoffs, Harden's playing time has further improved. After all, Harden is also a 36-year-old veteran, and obviously the long playing time will also greatly affect his performance and his influence on the game on the court. I wonder how the situation will change in the new season after the introduction of Paul. Can Harden's playing time be reduced, and can he improve his efficiency and performance?