Chicago Bulls legend Scottie Pippen reacted to James Harden’s comments calling himself the best player in the NBA. The Houston Rockets star has been making headlines in recent days, taking shots at Giannis Antetokounmpo while making others bold claims.
On Thursday’s edition of ESPN’s The Jump, Pippen reflected on Harden’s comments, claiming the former league MVP is the best scorer in the association, but that doesn’t necessarily mean he’s the best player.
“I believe he’s the best scorer in the league. Best player, no. When you talk about the best players in the game, you’re talking about guys that can make their team rise to the occasion. You talk about LeBron James, you talk about Giannis, you talk about Kawhi. Those are great players in our game.
“The Houston Rockets have been up and down all season, James Harden’s leadership is in question over the last two, three years. Even though he’s the best scorer in the game, that doesn’t equal championships. You can be the best scorer for 82 games, but you’re gonna be home come postseason.”
Just like Pippen said, Harden’s leadership has been questioned by his detractors in recent years. The Rockets couldn’t get past the Golden State Warriors in the last years, despite having several factors playing in their favor.
It’s bold to call yourself the best player in the league when you’re yet to demonstrate that in the playoffs, where it really matters.
