Despite averaging 29 points, 7.5 assists and 6.1 rebounds per game in 2015-’16, James Harden failed to make an All-NBA team. The Rockets guard is often criticized for his approach to defense and leadership instead of being acknowledged for his offensive acumen.
Team USA is currently in Houston preparing for tomorrow night’s exhibition game against Nigeria and during a media session, Kevin Durant came to his former teammate’s defense.
From the Houston Chronicle‘s Jonathan Feigen:
Kevin Durant on his friend, former teammate James Harden: "Nobody really appreciates what he does except for the players in our league,”
— Jonathan Feigen (@Jonathan_Feigen) July 31, 2016
Durant continued: "Anybody that can put up 29 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and not make the All NBA team, that’s like a sin."
— Jonathan Feigen (@Jonathan_Feigen) July 31, 2016
“Nobody really appreciates what he does except for the players in our league,” Durant said. “Everybody on the outside doesn’t really appreciate what he brings. Anybody that can put up 29 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and not make the All-NBA team, that’s like a sin to even think about not putting a guy like that on the All-NBA team.
“As a player and someone that played with him and a fan of the game I was (angry) because somebody is right here in front of you and you can’t appreciate him. If he were to retire tomorrow, we would have so many stories and videos about how great he is, but he’s here right now doing it. Appreciate what he brings.”
