The Philadelphia Sixers are preparing for a tough second-round matchup against the Boston Celtics in the NBA playoffs, but one of their star players might have some off-court issues to deal with. James Harden, who joined the Sixers in a blockbuster trade earlier this past season, was caught on video getting into a heated argument with a man outside of the Flamingo hotel in Las Vegas on Saturday night.
Was the Man James Harden Slapped His Friend?
The video, obtained by TMZ, shows Harden and the man exchanging words, before Harden appears to slap the man in his face. The slap was not very hard, and the man did not seem to be injured or provoked by it. However, the incident could still have some consequences for Harden and the Sixers. Some people are saying the man is actually James Harden’s friend who was seen on IG Live with him earlier that day acting a fool.
The Sixers might be more concerned about why Harden was in Las Vegas in the first place, just days before their playoff series against the Celtics begins. The Sixers finished the regular season with the third best record in the Eastern Conference, and Harden was a big part of their success. He averaged 21 points, 6.1 rebounds and 10.7 assists per game for the Sixers, forming a potent duo with Joel Embiid.
In the past Harden has faced some criticism for his alleged lack of commitment and professionalism. He forced his way out of Houston a few years ago after showing up to training camp out of shape. You might remember people clowning him for looking like Rick Ross before the weight loss. He also has a reputation for underperforming in the playoffs, especially in clutch situations. The footage of him in Las Vegas has those criticisms rearing their head once again.
The Sixers are hoping that Harden will be focused and motivated for their series against the Celtics, who have their own dynamic duo in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. The Celtics won almost every game against the Sixers during the regular season, and they are looking to repeat that feat in the playoffs. The Sixers will need Harden to be at his best if they want to advance to the conference finals and beyond.
The incident in Vegas might not affect Harden’s performance on the court, but it could be a distraction for him and his teammates. The Sixers have high expectations this season, and they cannot afford any unnecessary drama or controversy. Harden will have to prove that he is mentally locked in for what will be a true test of whether Sixers are a legit championship team.
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