When the Eastern Conference Finals got underway Tuesday night, Jalen Brunson got the better of James Harden as the New York Knicks defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 115-104 in overtime. After Game 1, Brunson received his flowers while Harden was once again skewered by critics.
One analyst who went below the belt with his criticism was Emmanuel Acho. On his “Speakeasy” podcast, Acho voiced out his disappointment towards Harden.
“To come into Game 1 and let Jalen Brunson take your heart, your will, and your manhood, and do absolutely nothing about it in the garden, is shameful.”
Acho went on run down James Harden’s numbers to illustrate how poorly the Cavs star has been playing, going all the way back to Game 7 of the Cleveland-Detroit series.
“James Harden, free throws are expensive for you. Why do I say that? Because you’re shooting 63% from the free throw line over the last two games. If I am not mistaken, you are 1-for-14 from the three-point line over the last two games.”
Though Harden finished with 15 points, four rebounds, and three assists in Game 1, he shot just 31.3% from the field and made only one of his eight attempts from deep. On the other hand, Brunson put up a game-high 38 points on a 51.7% shooting clip.
Harden will have to play much better for the Cavs to have a shot at stealing homecourt advantage in Game 2.
Cavs HC Gives Hot Take on James Harden After Game 1 Loss: “He’s Been One of Our Best Defenders”
Meanwhile, Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson gave an interesting take on James Harden’s skill set after the Game 1 loss.
“No. He’s been one of our best defenders in these playoffs,” Atkinson replied when asked if he considered benching Harden down the stretch. “I trust him. Smart. Great hands. Didn’t think about that.”
For years, Harden has been panned for his lack of effort on defense. It remains to be seen whether the former MVP will continue impressing Atkinson on that end of the floor in this conference final.
