Clippers to Curb James Harden's Workload

Merlin sees the Clippers aiming to lighten James Harden’s load next season, with Ty Lue telling reporters, "We don't want him to have to be in 60 pick-and-rolls every game." Lue admitted Harden "got worn down" late and the team plans to trim minutes, touches or shots while relying on healthier Kawhi Leonard and new vets like Bradley Beal and Chris Paul to share playmaking duties. Harden averaged more than 35 minutes in 79 games last year and led the team with a 28.6 usage rate. Merlin notes this is a delicate spell: fewer ball-heavy minutes and more catch-and-shoot chances (Harden shot 42% on those threes) could extend his effectiveness at 36. Still, the old wizard is stubborn — Lue said Harden is "not gonna listen" — so the Clippers will need structure and veteran buy-in to truly protect him.