“James Harden’s Gift is Sometimes His Curse”: Paul George Breaks Down Clippers Star’s Playoff Struggles

The 2025 NBA Playoffs were a roller coaster of ups and downs for Los Angeles Clippers star James Harden. He failed to produce when the team needed him the most in their decisive Game 7 loss to the Denver Nuggets. Former Clippers teammate Paul George empathizes with Harden. He has witnessed firsthand how great The Beard can be, but highlights how that talent is also a curse.

LA had the chance to seal an appearance in the Western Conference Semifinals. Unfortunately, they didn’t stand a chance in Game 7, falling by a score of 120-101. The Clippers needed James Harden to perform at the caliber he is capable of. Instead, he was a shadow of himself.

Harden put on a disappointing show, to say the least: 7 points, 5 rebounds and 13 assists. He only attempted eight shots and could convert just two. His ability to facilitate was on par, but the Clippers needed him to be aggressive.

Paul George played one season alongside Harden in 2023-24, has a read on why Harden’s play yo-yos. From playing closely with the 2018 MVP, PG-13 understands the give-and-take that comes with Harden’s skill set. He revealed on The Pivot Podcast that Harden’s ability to do so many things has itself been the reason for his downfall.

“At times, his gift is how good he is. It sometimes is his curse,” George proclaimed. “Because he can do so many things, he doesn’t know which one he wants to be or he needs to be for that specific game.”

Harden was passive when he needed to be assertive

George revealed the issue Harden faces is something that has plagued him throughout his career. It’s a fine line to balance creating opportunities for others and asserting himself into the game offensively. The Clippers needed the assertive Harden in Game 7 but got the passive.

This has become a bad habit for James Harden in his past playoff performances. He has earned an unfortunate title suggesting he doesn’t perform top level when it matters most.

Regardless, George doesn’t blame Harden too much. He believes this is something Harden will learn from and correct ahead of next season. This past season, Harden earned his first All-Star selection since 2022. He has shown he is still able to be the Harden of old. He just needs to do it more consistently and reliably.