James Harden's Defense Is Still Pathetic (GIF)

James Harden’s attempt at playing defense during the Houston Rockets–New York Knicks game was eye wrenching.

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There’s no denying that James Harden is one of the best offensive players in the NBA, though when it comes to his defense, the guard can leave a lot to be desired.

It’s not even so much that Harden simply lacks the skills to play defense but rather a lack of desire as he routinely is seen taking plays off allowing his man to blow right by him. That of course creates a domino effect for the Houston Rockets who are then left to clean up Harden’s mess on the defensive side of the ball.

Much was the same on Monday night as the All-Star attempted to ‘stop’ a fastbreak against the New York Knicks. And by ‘stop’ I mean Harden simply stopping in the middle of the court and allowing an easy basket on the other end.

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Now at first you could potentially attempt to argue that James Harden was simply attempting to put himself in position to take a charge which might not have actually been a poor decision. But he quickly puts an end to such a thought as you see him swipe his arm for a weak attempt at a steal.

The Houston Rockets have asked James Harden to be more proactive on the defensive end, something he admits he needs work on. But judging by his woeful attempt at playing such on Monday night it doesn’t seem as if he’s truly all that interested in fixing his weak spot.

You have to wonder how his lackadaisical approach on the defensive side of the ball impacts his teammates, especially the younger players on the roster who look up to Harden as a leader.

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James Harden’s Defense Is Still Embarrassingly Awful (GIF)

By Bryan Rose | Nov 25, 2014

James Harden’s attempt at playing defense during the Houston Rockets–New York Knicks game was eye wrenching.

More from FanSided