Thunderous Intentions
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Five ways the Thunder can stop James Harden

By Casimir Cuffy

Mar 26, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) dribbles the ball during the first quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 26, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) dribbles the ball during the first quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 9, 2017; Sacramento, CA, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) drives past Sacramento Kings guard Buddy Hield (24) at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 9, 2017; Sacramento, CA, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) drives past Sacramento Kings guard Buddy Hield (24) at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Don’t Foul

It is no secret that James Harden would live at the foul line if it was possible. Since his time coming off the bench for the Thunder, he has been the craftiest player in the league at getting fouled while shooting. In fact, Harden has lead the league the past three seasons in free throws attempted (10.2, 10.2, and 10.9) and free throws made (8.8, 8.8, and 9.2).

OKC has done a relatively fine job on limiting the attempts he gets at the free throw line. In the four games that Harden has played against the Thunder this season, he has been held to his second lowest average in attempts from the line with only 8.5.

How Does He Do It?

Harden has this tactic of drawing fouls where he holds the ball low and with both hands on his drive to the hoop. Naturally, NBA players are going to swipe at him trying to dislodge the ball, but James is so strong that he absorbs the contact while still getting up a shot. He is also one of the best in the league at drawing shooting fouls from three-point range.

OKC is going to have to stay disciplined on defense when he is pump-faking beyond the three-point line. A simple contest will have to be something they can live with, which is also why having the length of an Andre Roberson or Jerami Grant on him is important.

Also, players are going to reach. It’s almost natural to do so when he is driving to the paint, but focus can be controlled. James has been more of a drive and kick player this season, so as long as players stay home on their man and not help too much they should be fine.

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