Former MVP James Harden is looking fitter than ever in the preseason as he is desperate to win the ring this time and surely has the team to achieve the elusive title. Paired up with Joel Embiid, Harden is in a team that is one of the strong contenders for the title in the upcoming season. He only joined the Philadelphia 76ers midway through last season and did not have enough time to create the chemistry and bond required to win postseason matches.
Both Harden and Embiid know that they will be at the forefront of this franchise and most of the play will be handled by them. Therefore staying on the same page is very important for the both of them as they look to go deep in postseason and maybe even contend for the title. The chemistry of the big two alongwith the youthful exuberance of Thyrese Maxey will be very crucial for the Sixers in their title ambitions.
Ahead of the season both Harden and Embiid shared their opinions on each other and also on the team and their chemistry. Harden shared how he found Embiid to be more funnier than what he had thought of him earlier. He also shares how the Sixers have great potential going forward. “The future is unlimited for us,” Harden said. “You know, just being here for last season for a few months and then having a full offseason – just getting to know Joel a little bit more.” Via Lauren Rosen on 76ers media day.
Harden shares more about Embiid on how he is a very good teammate and a great guy. “He’s definitely a competitor in everything, not just basketball. He’s a little bit more funnier than I thought he was, but overall he’s just a great guy.”
The duo did not play as much as the Sixers management would have liked last season but they recorded 14-7 and it will surely motivate them. With Harden coming back leaner and fitter, the Sixers will hope that Harden’s range and creativity and Embiid’s muscle will combine and take them close to their dreams.
The Beard was full of praise for the big man as he shared how Embiid is not selfish and always puts the team first hence he adds how it is delightful to share the court with him. “I think he gets life itself, you know? He’s definitely far from selfish. And he’s just one of those guys I feel like you need to get to know to love. And then it makes it better being on the same court as him,” Harden revealed.
The Sixers are far from a finished product but with James Harden looking good and Joel Embiid only improving from last year, they surely have a chance. They also have a great supporting cast led by Thyrese Maxey, who has tremendous potential to take this game to the next level this time. Overall the Sixers are a very strong unit and a one to be reckoned with.
