NBA News: Paul George slammed in comparison to James Harden of the former Clippers teammate

On December 26, 2024By Littum

The Philadelphia 76ers acquired Paul George this offseason, hoping that his addition along with stars like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey would lift the team to serious NBA assertion. However, these expectations have not yet been fulfilled. In this context, a former Los Angeles Clippers George’s teammate delivered scathing criticism, highlighting a stark contrast between him and James Harden.

During a conversation on social media star Neons current, Patrick Beverley was asked about the best passer he has played with in his NBA career. The 36-year-old point guard did not hesitate: “James Harden, not even close,” he stated. However, he followed up with a sharp criticism and added: “But Paul George is the worst.”

Beverley elaborated on his assessment and breaks down the differences between Harden and George. “The basketball, they have lines on them right, usually guys like to line up the ball, they like to tell you how to be taught. Put your fingertip on black on the line and you just drop it.” he explained. Beverley praised Harden’s accuracy, adding, “With James Harden, you never had to fix the laces. They were already on.”

The criticism of Paul George was far less flattering. “But with Paul George, he throws it (expletive), you don’t know quickly, it is. It looks slow, but you catch it quickly and it spins the other way, so you have to catch it with a guy closing in on you. You have to fix it, fix it again, and then shoot it.” Beverley said, taking another swipe at his former Clippers teammate.

Patrick Beverley 22 of the Philadelphia 76ers brings the ball up the court in the second half against the Chicago Bulls

Patrick Beverley 22 of the Philadelphia 76ers brings the ball up court in the second half against the Chicago Bulls

Beverley targets Paul George

Patrick Beverley’s criticism of Paul George did not stop with a comparison to the passing of James Harden. During the interview, Neon commented, “Paul George is cool, but he’s only averaging 16 a game right now… But he’s great though. Unguardable.”

Beverley’s answer was direct and surprising. “Awesome is a strong word,” he said before adding, “He’s good. He’s fighting.” Beverley is clearly not impressed with George’s performance since joining the Philadelphia 76ers: he’s averaging 16.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5.0 assists over 17 games.

Beverley’s familiarity with George and Harden

Beverley’s sharp criticism comes from first-hand experience. After playing in the NBA for over a decade, he has shared the court with numerous stars. He teamed up with James Harden on Houston Rockets from 2013 to 2018, gained a deep appreciation for Harden’s precision and skill.