5. Keep Andre Roberson on him at all times
Against the Thunder, Harden has averaged nine less points than usual and his field goal percentage drops from his regular average of 44% to 34.3%. One constant factor that was in all four games was the defense of Andre Roberson.
Roberson is starting to gain league-wide popularity for being a great defender and may get some all-defense team nods. Andre is quick on his feet while also being strong enough to not be bullied by a player. He can guard three or four positions in today’s NBA and that is nothing to gloss over.
The main game-plan should be to shadow Harden the entire game with Roberson. Donovan should/will match-up Roberson’s minutes with Harden’s as long as he stays out of foul trouble. Roberson has clearly made a difference all season while being James’ main defender and the Rockets also know that. Houston will try to create ways to get Roberson switched off of Harden, but the Thunder have to be prepared for that.
It will take a team effort to hold the likely MVP runner-up from going off every game. The Thunder’s defense is capable of buckling down and doing so but it will take immense discipline from everyone involved.