Superstar forward Kawhi Leonard’s departure from the Toronto Raptors to join the Los Angeles Clippers marked a turning point for the struggling franchise.
With the addition of fellow superstar James Harden, who left the Philadelphia 76ers to play for his hometown team, the Clippers’ chances of winning their first NBA title improved significantly.
Initially, there were concerns about how head coach Tyronn Lue would manage four superstars and their egos. The combination of Leonard, Harden, Paul George, and Russell Westbrook took time to gel, but now they seem to be firing on all cylinders just in time for the NBA playoffs.
Former NBA star Paul Pierce recently shared his view that Harden is a bigger superstar than Leonard. While Leonard may be the better all-around player with two titles to his name, Pierce argues that Harden’s star power and off-court life make him the bigger superstar.
Harden’s brand value is undeniable, with popular signature shoes and a significant influence on the game. Additionally, he is known for his offensive skills as one of the best shot-creators in the league. However, Leonard remains the number one superstar on the Clippers, and his reliability in the postseason is a crucial asset for the team.
As the postseason approaches, Harden is focused on building team chemistry and bringing energy to the Clippers. In a recent game against the Portland Trail Blazers, Harden playfully attempted to block a shot by his teammate Leonard, showcasing his desire to create excitement and a positive vibe for the team.
Overall, the Clippers now have a formidable lineup with both Harden and Leonard, giving them a strong chance at capturing an NBA championship. While opinions may differ on who is the bigger superstar, there is no denying the impact both players have on and off the court.
The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Portland Trail Blazers with a score of 116-103. James Harden scored 19 points and had 14 assists in the game. The Clippers will have a rematch against the Blazers on Friday at the Moda Center in Portland.
NBA legend Paul Pierce recently expressed his opinion on the Clippers, stating that James Harden is a bigger superstar than Kawhi Leonard, who is currently considered the franchise’s top player. The Clippers have a star-studded lineup and are seen as a superteam, making them strong contenders for the championship this season.
Charles Barkley even labeled them the scariest team in the Western Conference, as long as their players remain healthy.
Pierce made his remarks on the “KG Certified” podcast, which he co-hosts with his former Celtics teammate Kevin Garnett.
In the podcast episode, Pierce and Garnett discussed the debate of who is the bigger star between James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. Pierce argued that while Leonard may have more wins, Harden has greater name recognition and popularity in the community, making him the more prominent “superstar.” Garnett agreed with Pierce, emphasizing Harden’s strong brand value.
Paul Pierce says James Harden is a bigger superstar than Kawhi Leonard
(h/t @NBABeyondCourt) pic.twitter.com/EaoUCOpRN0
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 22, 2024
Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins recently criticized Harden for his unusual antics during a game against the Trail Blazers. Despite the Clippers winning the game, Perkins labeled Harden’s behavior as bizarre. However, some fans saw it as a light-hearted moment amidst the seriousness of the game.
During the game, in the third quarter, Harden passed the ball to Leonard, who was in a good shooting position. As Leonard attempted the shot, Harden surprised everyone by trying to block him. Leonard missed the shot, which was then cleared by another Clippers player. Harden later dismissed the incident as a prank when upset fans expressed their displeasure.
James Harden contesting Kawhi’s shot. 😂😂
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) March 21, 2024
Perkins criticized Harden’s actions, highlighting the pressure the team and players are under due to their struggles. The podcast discussion continued with further analysis of Paul Pierce’s remarks on James Harden’s superstar status and opinions on Harden’s prank on Kawhi Leonard.
Fans reacted as follows:
He’s not wrong. Kawhi is a better player, Harden is a bigger and more marketable superstar
— JWAC (@JwacReactions) March 22, 2024
Kawhi is the Hands down better player
James Harden is the without Question bigger Superstar
James Harden in different countries with Rappers and shit
Kawhi barely talk😂😂😂
— GuruTwoey (@GuruTwoey) March 22, 2024
If he’s talking about weight.. then yea
— CantGuardBook (@CGBBURNER) March 22, 2024
He's a bigger superstar.
But not the better basketball player.— Aingaran (@aingaran) March 22, 2024
Prime harden? Maybe.
Harden today? He’s not a superstar anymore unless you’re talking about popularity— 🎗NBA•Fan🎗 (@Klutch_23) March 22, 2024
This isn’t even controversial, Harden is by far the greater regular season player and he hasn’t had Kawhi’s luck in the post season, else this wouldn’t even be a debate
— Onos (@0noriode) March 23, 2024
He might be because he’s “louder” in a way. But when it matters most, Kawhi is the proven one.
— RJ Trader (@rj_trading1) March 22, 2024
To be fair James had some of the wildest seasons in nba history year after year and Kawhi was out for entire seasons at a time. At least Harden has been available
— Esta☀️ (@knyesta) March 22, 2024
To be fair James had some of the wildest seasons in nba history year after year and Kawhi was out for entire seasons at a time. At least Harden has been available
— Esta☀️ (@knyesta) March 22, 2024
James Harden on this play pic.twitter.com/RDocJu2CF1
— Suns Geek (@sunsgeek) March 21, 2024
