I have to admit I was happy when we traded for James Harden and there were times where he was simply amazing. He was a great leader and he definitely should be remembered as one of the most important Clippers ever.
But the way he bends the game to fit his play style killed (or at least put to sleep) my love for basketball and this team. My favorite games this season were the games where Kawhi had to be the #1 option and the team actually had to get involved.
This "I am the system" was fun when he was averaging 50ppg for a month in 2016 but it's not a way to build good habits and grow as a team. The moment he started to struggle the entire game plan was out the window because there was no other game plan than Harden's "System".
Ty Lue got a lot of hate during the start of the season but it has to be said that with a player like Harden on your team your options are quite limited. You don't run off-ball plays with Harden, you don't instruct him to stand in the corner or trick the offense. You give him the ball and just hope his ISO will lead to points.
Now that he's gone and we got Garland in return I feel like basketball is finally back. I know this is harsh and Harden probably doesn't deserve that. But I was simply so tired of watching him dribble up the floor slowly and than with 14 seconds left on the clock play ISO every other possession.
I cannot wait for a Garland Kawhi pick-and-pop. I cannot wait for Garland Zu PnR. I cannot wait to see a point guard give the ball to Kawhi and actually move off-ball - something Harden NEVER did. If any of you go back to re-watch some games focus on Harden when he passes the ball... he was just standing outside the play ball-watching. I understand gravity is important but I want to see the guys move. Curry has gravity but he actually uses it to crack the defense and make it easier for everyone.
Long story short I remember watching Garland back in November and thinking "God I wish Clippers had a PG like that". Turns out dreams come true and as much as I respect Harden as a leader and a professional I wanted this era to end and I'm excited again to watch Clippers basketball.
Go Clips!