Trevor Ariza made headlines during his appearance on the “Run Your Race” podcast with Theo Pinson by naming James Harden as the best scorer he ever played with.

This statement raised eyebrows, especially considering Ariza’s stints with two of the most prolific scorers in NBA history, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.

“For sure, James. He figured out how to score the basketball. That run he went on was crazy sh**. That’s f***ing nuts. Just being on the court, sometimes you’d kinda like fall asleep just watching, bro. Like, damn. He really did that?”

Ariza’s admiration for Harden stems from their time together on the Houston Rockets, where Harden established himself as one of the league’s most dominant offensive players.

During Harden’s peak years with the Rockets, he led the league in scoring for three consecutive seasons (2017-2019), including a memorable stretch where he averaged over 40 points per game for 40 games in the 2018-2019 season. This level of consistent scoring excellence left a lasting impression on Ariza.

It’s notable that Ariza played alongside Kobe Bryant for two seasons with the fhoLos Angeles Lakers, where they won an NBA championship in 2009. Kobe, renowned for his scoring ability and clutch performances, is often mentioned in GOAT discussions. Ariza also spent a season with LeBron James on the Lakers, witnessing firsthand LeBron’s multifaceted game and scoring capabilities.

Despite the accolades and legendary status of Kobe and LeBron, Ariza’s choice of Harden underscores the unique scoring skill set Harden possesses. Harden’s ability to create his own shot, his proficiency from beyond the arc, and his knack for drawing fouls make him a scoring machine in the modern NBA.

Ariza’s comments reflect the respect and admiration he has for Harden’s scoring ability, emphasizing how Harden’s approach to the game left even his teammates in awe. This endorsement from a player who has shared the court with some of the greatest talents in basketball history speaks volumes about Harden’s impact as a scorer.

LeBron James And Kobe Bryant Have Longevity Over James Harden
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant are often celebrated not only for their scoring abilities but also for their longevity and consistency over their careers, aspects where James Harden falls short in comparison.

Kobe Bryant had 12 seasons averaging more than 25 points per game, with his peak at an astounding 35.4 points per game during the 2005-2006 season. His longevity in maintaining high-scoring averages is a testament to his work ethic, skill, and ability to adapt his game as he aged.

Beyond the regular season, Kobe’s postseason performances were legendary. His ability to elevate his game when it mattered most contributed significantly to the Los Angeles Lakers’ five NBA championships during his tenure.

LeBron James, even more remarkably, has a streak of 20 seasons averaging more than 25 points per game, peaking at 31.4 points per game in the 2005-2006 season. LeBron’s sustained excellence over two decades highlights his exceptional physical condition, basketball IQ, and versatility.

His postseason record is equally impressive, with numerous deep playoff runs and four NBA championships, solidifying his status as one of the greatest ever.

In contrast, James Harden, while an elite scorer, lacks the same level of longevity. Harden had eight straight seasons averaging more than 25 points per game, peaking at 36.1 points per game during the 2018-2019 season.

But, his playoff performances have often been marred by significant meltdowns. Notable examples include his struggles against the San Antonio Spurs in 2017 and the Boston Celtics during his time with the Philadelphia 76ers. These critical failures in high-stakes games have tarnished Harden’s reputation as a reliable postseason performer.

Additionally, the championship count starkly differentiates these players. Kobe’s five titles and LeBron’s four titles underscore their ability to lead their teams to the ultimate success. Harden, despite his scoring prowess, has yet to capture an NBA championship, a glaring omission in his otherwise stellar career.

While James Harden is undoubtedly one of the best scorers of his generation, LeBron James and Kobe Bryant’s longevity, consistency, and success in both regular and postseason play set them apart. Their ability to perform at an elite level over extended periods and deliver in critical moments highlights why they are considered among the greatest in NBA history.

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