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The Philadelphia 76ers acquired James Harden from the Brooklyn Nets in a blockbuster trade involving Ben Simmons last season. The Sixers might have gotten rid of Simmons, but Harden had a " Ben Simmons" moment in Game 3 of their playoff series against the Boston Celtics.
With around seven minutes left in the third quarter and the Celtics up 72-65, Harden called for a pick-and-roll with Joel Embiid setting the screen. Harden was able to free himself up and drive through the lane for an open floater.
However, the former MVP had a brainfart and passed a wide open shot to pass it to Tyrese Maxey in the corner. Jayson Tatum had a hand on the ball as it went out of bounds. Harden was a bit indecisive considering he was shooting 1-for-9 at that point.
James Harden's play in Game 2 and 3 dropped off significantly after his vintage performance in Game 1. Harden has struggled with his shots and it's quite baffling since his job would be much easier with Joel Embiid in the lineup.
Nevertheless, having Harden now will be better than Ben Simmons' last season in Philly. Simmons was too afraid to take a shot because he was afraid to get fouled. At the end of the day, it was a trade the Philadelphia 76ers needed to do.
James Harden abysmal in Game 3
James Harden started off the Eastern Conference semifinals with a vintage performance in Game 1 against the Boston Celtics. Harden led the Philadelphia 76ers to a 119-115 win. He finished with 45 points and six assists, going 17-for-30 from the field, including 7-for-14 from beyond the arc.
However, the former MVP followed it up with a terrible Game 2. He shot 2-for-14 from the field and missed all of his six 3-point shots in the Sixers' 121-87 loss. He only had 12 points with 10 rebounds and four assists.
Many expected him to have a bounce back game back in Philly for Game 3, but the same thing happened again on Friday. Harden struggled with his shot as the Sixers are now 2-1 following their 114-102 loss. He had 16 points and 11 assists, but was 3-for-14 from the field and had five turnovers.
Joel Embiid played like an MVP with 30 poins, 13 rebounds, three assists and four blocks. But of the Sixers want to even the series in Game 4 on Sunday, Harden will need to rediscover his touch.
