Now that there is a good sample size of games, we can properly assess the new-look Philadelphia 76ers. As expected, the addition of James Harden to the lineup has provided a lift in multiple areas, especially on the offensive end of the floor.
Given the reputation he built with the Houston Rockets, many zero in on Harden's scoring ability when discussing his game. While the former MVP can rack up points in a hurry, it's his playmaking that has stood out thus far in Philadelphia. Part of why Harden has been able to seamlessly integrate himself is because of his high-level ability to run an offense. Instead of asserting himself as a scorer, he has made life easier for those around him as a passer.
Before he arrived in Philly, Harden was near the top of the league in assists per game. That level of production has not changed since joining Joel Embiid and company. In the five games he's suited up for the Sixers, Harden achieved double-digits in the assist column.
Having a guard of this caliber on the roster has drastically simplified the offense for most of the role players. Tyrese Maxey is the name most mention in terms of benefiting from Harden, but Matisse Thybulle and Georges Niang also pair well with the All-Star guard.
In the Sixers' 121-106 victory over the Chicago Bulls, Harden's passing was on full display. James Harden dished 14 assists in the hard-fought battle with one of the Eastern Conference's top teams. The majority of them came from Niang and Thybulle, who Doc Rivers utilized as screeners for Harden in the pick-and-roll.
Following the win, both players opened up about what Harden has done for them since his arrival. Niang mentioned it is a dream come true getting to share the court with a playmaker the caliber of Harden.
“The fact that he draws so much attention as a scorer, and just his ability to make quick passes or no-look passes that hit me right on the hands, it's like a dream come true. My job is pretty simple after that,” said Niang.
Given that Thybulle is being used in a way he never has before, this adaption is more of an uphill battle. Despite this, the defensive specialist continues to learn from Harden as he works to complement his new All-Star teammate.
“I'm just continuing to learn how to play with him. He's teaching me a lot on the fly. Some of the things I pick up, some of the things I miss. I'm just really trying to complement him as well as possible because it creates a lot of opportunity not only for myself but for our team,” Thybulle said postgame.
One thing Harden does not get enough credit for is making the players around him better. Finding ways to get Thybulle offensive looks has been a project for the Sixers, and Harden appears to be the solution. Niang was already seen as a good offseason addition and has looked even better after seeing what he can do in the pick-and-pop.
Everyone knows the damage James Harden and Joel Embiid will do on a nightly basis, but the supporting cast has been a big question mark. Getting more production out of the role players is one of the many positives that have come about since the Sixers added another superstar into the mix.
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