Kevin Garnett Sees James Harden Elevating Cavaliers’ Frontcourt
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Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett believes the Cleveland Cavaliers may have found the missing piece to maximize their big-man duo. Speaking on the latest episode of the KG Certified podcast, Garnett said newly acquired guard James Harden is already creating scoring chances for Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
“He can reinvent Mobley right now,” Garnett said. “He can get Mobley and Allen six to eight points a game just off the lob threat.” Garnett compared Harden’s impact to the guard’s previous work with centers Ivica Zubac and Clint Capela, both of whom became reliable targets on pick-and-roll lobs.
Cleveland Starts 2-0 With Harden
The Cavaliers are 2-0 since Harden’s arrival, defeating Sacramento and Denver while posting 132 and 119 points, respectively. Over those two games, Harden has averaged 22.5 points, 6.0 rebounds and 7.5 assists, shooting 48.3% from the field, 46.7% from three-point range and a perfect 100% at the free-throw line.
The transition alongside fellow guard Donovan Mitchell has been smooth. Mitchell is averaging 33.5 points and 7.0 assists on better than 51% shooting since Harden joined the lineup, with no noticeable drop-off in ball movement.
Contract Situation
Harden, still seeking his first NBA championship after a 2012 Finals loss with Oklahoma City, is under contract through next season on a deal with partial guarantees. The Clippers passed on a longer commitment before the trade, and league sources expect Cleveland to revisit Harden’s contract this summer.
Mobley and Allen have never advanced past the second round, but Garnett suggested Harden’s playmaking could push the frontcourt — and the Cavaliers — to new heights.
Source: Hoops Wire
