After having eight days off for the All-Star break, the Philadelphia 76ers were back in action for the final stretch of the regular season. Their lineup looked much different than we are accustomed to seeing, as James Harden made his long-awaited debut with his new team. The former MVP was acquired in a mega-deal at the trade deadline, but a nagging hamstring injury delayed his first appearance on the court for the Sixers.
As far as first performances go, the Sixers could not be happier with how things played out. Not only did Philly beat the Timberwolves in blowout fashion, but Harden posted a near triple-double with 27 points, eight rebounds, and 12 assists.
Following the win, Harden opened up on taking the floor for the first time with his new team. He feels good from a physical standpoint and is still amazed by the culture the Sixers have built.
“My body feels great, personally, and then just to be around these guys who have the same common goal, coaching staff, and just top to bottom, winning. Tonight, I think defensively we were really good, and that’s what led to our offense being even better.” Per Ky Carlin of USA Today.
While this performance should have the team feeling good, Harden is fully aware their work is only beginning. That being said, he feels confident this group will do whatever is needed to be ready when the lights get bright in the postseason.
“Tonight was a great start, but we have a long way to go. We'll do whatever it takes every single day to build the right habits, so we're prepared when the time is right.” Per Lauren Rosen.
Building cohesiveness within this new group is the Sixers' top priority moving forward. Based on how well things went Friday, that might come along quicker than some first anticipated. Harden's ability to go for a big night while not taking away from others around him proves how perfect of a fit he is in Philly. Many criticized Morey for pursuing a player on the back end of his prime so aggressively, but the results are speaking for themselves.
Looking ahead, the Sixers only have 23 regular-season games left. Putting them in the tough position of learning on the fly as they prepare for what they hope will be a deep postseason run. While this is certainly a daunting task, Joel Embiid and company appear ready to do whatever is needed to put the team in the best position to achieve its top goal in winning a championship.
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