The NBA crowd talks. Harden played in the 2025 playoffs first round. Fans hear his act and recall old times. He once shined as an All-Star and league MVP. Yet his play now brings back past struggles with his old team. His time with the Clippers shows more signs of trouble.
In Game 7 against the Denver Nuggets, fans watched each move. Harden scored seven points when he shot 2 for 8. The Clippers lost 131 to 115. He gave 13 assists, but his low score left questions in tough moments. Many voices appeared online. One fan said, "It is normal for him in the playoffs."
Before this key match, Harden showed bright moments. In the series, he averaged 21 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds. In Game 5, he scored 11 points but also gave away four turnovers. Then he put up 28 points in Game 6. Still, high hopes for the final game fell short. His miss left many fans sad.
Harden’s weak show in big games is known to fans. Since 2020, he has scored less than 15 points in Game 7s. His shooting rate stays near 28%. This weak act shadows many strong regular season wins. Fans hold these moments close in their minds.
Fans took to Twitter with their thoughts. Some laughed and did not see him as a match for greats like Dwyane Wade. One wrote, "I stop you from calling him DWade, lmaooo." Others recalled past losses. They remembered Game 7 in 2023 against the Celtics, when he scored nine points in a loss.
The Clippers lost in the first round. Harden has yet to bring a deep playoff run. Many see this as a slow trend for a man known for his skill. The Clippers list many strong players. They hoped Harden could boost the team in the post-season. His part in the game was watched by all.
Harden grows older, and the need for strong play grows too. Fans balance his great talent with doubt in tough moments. It is not clear how he will win back support or still his critics. His story grows more complex with each playoff match.
As the offseason nears, the NBA crowd waits. They will see how Harden meets this new test in a long, rocky career.