James Harden and Kendrick Perkins (Image Source: Getty Images)
The LA Clippers have big plans for the upcoming season. Along with new jerseys and logos, they would be seen in their brand-new home arena. But what about the championship race? The franchise has suffered back-to-back defeats in the post-season tournament. Instead of focusing on the ultimate goal, the Clippers’ owner Steve Ballmer has been fulfilling his team members’ demands. The claim was made by Kendrick Perkins on “NBA Today” after James Harden’s new contract with the franchise.
Following Harden’s signing, the furious ESPN analyst lashed out at Ballmer, saying, “Seriously, what are they doing? Ever since Steve Ballmer took over as far as buying this team, all he’s been doing is paying salaries, paying doctor bills and paying salaries, paying doctor bills and paying construction workers. That’s it. This team has underachieved damn near every single season and they’re never reliable when it comes down to when it matters the most.” He further added the team is not going on the right path.
“… all [Steve Ballmer] been doing is paying salaries, paying doctor bills, and paying construction workers…”
-Kendrick Perkins on the Clippers last 5 years😭 pic.twitter.com/CjjDBiqppa
— Mari (@ohhhthatsMari) June 30, 2024
The franchise reportedly agreed to continue their journey with Harden for another two years worth $70 million, which frustrated Perkins as the 34-year-old couldn’t display his potential in the Clippers’ jersey.
The LA side brought in James Harden last year in the hopes of forming their Big 3 with Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. However, their dreams were soon crushed when the guard failed to live up to their expectations.
Looking Back at James Harden’s Season
The Clippers signed James Harden after the 10-time All-Star publicly expressed his desire to move out of the Sixers. But the plan didn’t work well for the team.
The veteran was expected to showcase his brilliance consistently throughout the season. However, his numbers had dropped massively compared to the previous season to 16.6 points, 5.1 rebounds and 8.5 assists per game.
After grabbing fourth place on the Western table, the team couldn’t keep their pace in the playoffs. Following Kawhi’s injury in the early stage of the tournament, the Clippers gave in to the Mavericks in the opening round. However, Harden tried his best by putting up 21.2 points, 8.0 assists and 4.5 rebounds in the 6 games, but it wasn’t enough.
Now with Paul George leaving, Harden has to step up in the upcoming season and lead the team with Kawhi to prove his doubters wrong.
