James Harden and Joel Embiid proved this season that they are two of the toughest players to guard. Both Embiid and Harden have shown a great degree of proficiency when it comes to drawing fouls from opposition defenders and getting to the free-throw line. Harden averages 8.2 free throw attempts per game, whereas Joel Embiid averages 11.8 free throw attempts per game. But one head coach isn’t impressed.
Tyronn Lue, the head coach for the LA Clippers, recently criticized both players. He noted that both players rank pretty high when it comes to attempted free throws in the NBA. And if one were to take those attempted free throws out of the game, their scoring numbers would go down significantly. James Harden responded by saying that free throws are part of the game and the defenders need to not let that happen.
Ty Lue: “Embiid is #1 in the league in free throws and James Harden is #3. You take away their free throws and neither guy would be Top-10 in scoring.”
James Harden: “I don’t even pay attention to it. Free throws are a part of the game. You look at who leads the league, Joel and Giannis, what about if you take away their free throws? I don’t understand what that comment meant Free throws are part of the game. It’s on the defense to have discipline and not foul. That’s what coaches should be teaching their players. For me I don’t pay attention to it, I just try to go out there and make an impact on the game.”
Harden clearly doesn’t appreciate the comments made by Lue, but it is something he has gotten used to hearing over the course of his career. Harden is one of the craftiest players in the league and can use his body and skills to draw fouls from his opponents almost better than anyone else in the NBA.
Harden and Embiid are expected to win an NBA championship this season, with the 76ers being outlined as one of the favorites to win it all this year. Harden has a history of underperforming in the playoffs, so the 76ers will be hopeful that Harden can overcome his issues and help lead the team to championship glory.
