Remember me
James Harden deservedly took significant criticism earlier this week after the Cleveland Cavaliers fell into an 0-2 hole against the Detroit Pistons.
He scored just 10 points on 3-of-13 shooting in the Game 2 loss, but bounced back in a major way in Game 3. Harden scored nine points in the final quarter to help the Cavaliers to a 116-109 victory and cut the series deficit to just one game.
"I love it," said Harden, who finished with 19 points, seven assists and only three turnovers. "When my number is called, just getting to my spots. It's something I work on literally every day. It's basically repetition, and it's the confidence to go out there and do it."
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Harden clearly heard the criticism, which he called "chatter" after the game, but made it clear he's not supposed to be the best player on the team anymore as he accepts a different role.
"I didn't average 30 points in the regular season, you know what I mean? I'm literally here to find my spots, figure out what needs to be done and try to contribute in the best way possible," Harden said.
"Chatter is going to be chatter regardless. Whether you do something good, whether you do something bad. For me, still, you give me opportunities in this fourth quarter, and I take advantage of them.
Game 4 between the Cavaliers and Pistons is set for Monday, May 11 at 8 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on NBC and can be found streaming on Peacock.
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