This offseason, James Harden finally forced his way out of Philadelphia and began a new chapter with the Los Angeles Clippers. As Melbet Login analysts noted, the move sparked widespread debate — could Harden revive his career while elevating the Clippers’ star-studded roster? On paper, his arrival should boost the team’s title hopes. But in a system built around Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, there’s no question: Harden would need to adjust, defer, and find a way to fit in.

At this point in his career, Harden no longer has the same burst or stamina he once did. Whether he can still provide consistent, positive contributions — rather than becoming a liability — remains to be seen. His debut with the Clippers came on the road at Madison Square Garden, where he once had one of the best games of his career. But this time, he wasn’t the lone star. Padding stats was no longer his job.

From the very first quarter, Harden made it clear he was lowering his profile. He initiated multiple pick-and-rolls with Ivica Zubac — his comfort zone — delivering two signature pocket passes that led to efficient finishes. Still, Melbet Login experts were quick to notice: Harden didn’t attempt a single shot in the first quarter. Intent on proving he could be a team player, he seemed determined to pass — not score.

But Harden’s extreme unselfishness didn’t yield the intended results. His deference appeared contagious, as both Kawhi and George also hesitated to assert themselves offensively. The team’s rhythm sputtered. Eventually, it was Russell Westbrook who broke the scoring drought with a pull-up jumper. Ironically, many predicted that Westbrook would be the odd man out following Harden’s arrival — the two have similar playstyles and ball-dominant tendencies. Some even feared a repeat of Westbrook’s rocky Lakers stint, with a bench role looming.

Instead, Westbrook emerged as the Clippers’ most aggressive and effective player in the first quarter. While the others tiptoed around ball-sharing dynamics, Westbrook attacked the rim and even hit a corner three. Still, relying on him as the offensive engine isn’t a viable long-term solution. The team’s top dogs — Leonard and George — barely saw touches in key stretches, seemingly focused on accommodating Harden’s debut.

Harden only began looking for his own shot when playing alongside the second unit, finally knocking down a jumper for his first points as a Clipper. But the passive approach from all three superstars continued into the second half, and the consequences were severe. Despite the Knicks entering the game as one of the league’s lowest-scoring teams and dealing with internal issues, they came alive against the Clippers’ lackluster defense and lack of urgency.

Harden’s arrival threw off the chemistry. Every player tried to adjust, sacrificing their natural tendencies in an effort to “fit in.” But in doing so, they lost their edge. The Clippers collapsed in the second half — a cautionary tale of too much respect, not enough identity. As the saying goes, trying to please everyone often pleases no one.

This may be Harden’s final opportunity to prove he can contribute meaningfully to a title contender. If he fails to reclaim his reputation in Los Angeles, Melbet Login predicts there may be no next chapter — just a slow fade into basketball obscurity. The time for overthinking is gone. For Harden and the Clippers, it’s now or never.