NBA players don’t tend to advise their competitors, especially in the middle of the season.
Despite this being an atypical thing to do, Jamal Murray had a few things to say to James Harden.
Murray talked with reporters after the Denver Nuggets’ recent loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, a conversation shared by beat writer Tomer Azarly.
In this conversation, Murray said that he would like Harden to “shoot more,” adding, “he does a good job playing at his own pace and getting other guys involved.”
Jamal Murray on what he’s seen from James Harden with the Clippers:
“I would like him to shoot more, honestly! He can shoot it! … He does a good job playing at his own pace and getting other guys involved.”
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) December 7, 2023
Murray believes that Harden and the Clippers would be better off if he took more shots.
Harden has attempted 10.4 shots per game this season, a significant drop-off from his career mark of 16.4.
Murray might have a point that Harden’s lack of shots could contribute to the Clippers’ .500 record for the year.
The Clippers added him before the season started in hopes of upping their chances in the Western Conference.
So far, that hasn’t necessarily been the case, as Harden has needed to establish rapport and chemistry with his new teammates.
It can sometimes be difficult for elite players to play on the same team, as they all must work together in unison.
Harden and his teammates must figure things out as the season progresses to make a splash within the conference.
They are currently the ninth-best team in the West, keeping themselves alive for postseason contention.
Hopefully, things will turn around soon, and as Murray suggests, Harden will return to his typical production levels.
NEXT:
Nikola Jokic Gets Honest On Rough Shooting Night
