James Harden injury: How long is the Philadelphia 76ers star expected to be out for? | 2022-2023 NBA season
This just in, James Harden will miss a month of action after being rumored to have suffered a tendon strain in his right foot. The news comes on the heels of the former MVP going down mid-game Wednesday during the Philadelphia 76ers' 121-111 loss to the Washington Wizards.
ESPN Sources: Philadelphia 76ers star James Harden has suffered right foot tendon strain and is expected to miss a month. https://t.co/LHEIucfbFj
During the game, Harden was seen limping back to the locker room, causing concern among the 76ers fans and staff members. After a brief stint in the locker room, Harden returned to the floor. Despite that, the former MVP simply didn't look like himself during the loss.
The injury is sure to set the 76ers back. With Joel Embiid currently out, the pressure was on Harden to keep things going. In nine games, Harden averaged 22 points and 10 assists while shooting 44.1% from the floor. It's been an impressive season so far for Harden as he has embraced the facilitator role.
With Joel Embiid out, the team's ceiling is noticeably low, and on both ends of the floor, they're left without critical pieces. Considering Harden will be sidelined for the next month, things could get even worse for the Eastern Conference contenders.
James Harden has continued to battle injuries
The past two seasons have been riddled with injuries for James Harden. Last season, the former MVP dealt with a slew of lower-body injuries that sidelined him at various points. The situation was so significant that Harden ultimately wound up sitting out during the All-Star break and briefly during the playoffs.
Going into the season, James Harden and Embiid were poised to be one of the most lethal duos in the league. Coach Doc Rivers used Harden as a facilitator, giving him the opportunity to cement himself as one of the best point guards in the league.
Last season, James Harden finished second on the assists list behind only Chris Paul. It gave the 76ers a glimpse into what Harden could do as the primary ballhandler. In addition to scoring at an elite level and getting to the line, Harden's experience as a point guard with the OKC Thunder proved vital.
Some fans may recall that coming out of the half, former OKC Thunder coach Scott Brooks used to start Harden as the team's point guard. The experience was something Harden put to use in his new role with the 76ers.
With the latest injury, James Harden and the 76ers will likely face some rough patches in the immediate future. The onus will fall on young players like Tyrese Maxey and Matisse Thybulle, as well as veterans like Tobias Harris and P.J. Tucker, to keep things going.
So far, no word has been given on when Harden and Joel Embiid will return to the floor.
Do you think this injury will significantly derail the 76ers' season? Or will Joel Embiid return to MVP form and keep them going after returning from his non-COVID related illness? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!