James Harden is one of the greatest scorers in NBA history, but as good as he’s been, he’s also been a polarizing figure.
He always drew criticism for his foul-baiting and how he fell short in big games.
Despite that, he’s been an unstoppable offensive force, and as such has no shortage of fans.
Notably, that list includes current Brooklyn Nets star Cam Thomas.
“I really patterned my game after James Harden when he was in Houston,” Thomas said on “The Draymond Green Show,” via Legion Hoops.
Cam Thomas:
“I really patterned my game after James Harden when he was in Houston.”
(via @DraymondShow) pic.twitter.com/wl4tsXqdoQ
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) December 7, 2024
Harden reportedly studied Manu Ginobili’s game, being a lefty like him, and tried to incorporate some of his mesmerizing moves into his offensive repertoire.
Thomas isn’t left-handed like Harden, but you can see his influence in his game, for better or worse.
Like Harden, Thomas doesn’t always give his all on defense, and he doesn’t add the playmaking part of Harden’s game either.
But like Harden, Thomas has the potential to put up 30 points on any given night, even when his shot isn’t falling.
Moving forward, the Nets have to make a big decision regarding the 23-year-old.
He’s their best offensive player, but they need much more than him, so they could look to trade him to get more assets to rebuild.
If not, they might choose to build around him, hoping that he can become the MVP-caliber player Harden has been throughout his career.
NEXT: Insider Says 1 Nets Veteran Is Viewed As A Trade Candidate