James Harden’s Bold Statement: “I Don’t Get Enough Credit for My Work”

Few players in NBA history have combined scoring, playmaking, and durability quite like James Harden. A former NBA MVP, multiple-time All-Star, and one of the greatest offensive weapons of the modern era, Harden has left an undeniable mark on the game.

Yet, despite his Hall of Fame-worthy résumé, Harden recently made a bold statement that has sparked heated debate among fans and analysts:

“I don’t get enough credit for my work.”

This claim has divided the basketball world. Some believe Harden is underrated and underappreciated, while others argue that his playoff failures, style of play, and past controversies have overshadowed his greatness.

So, is James Harden truly underappreciated? Or is the lack of credit a result of his own shortcomings? In this in-depth analysis, we’ll explore:

Harden’s statistical dominance and impact on the game

Why he might feel underappreciated

The biggest criticisms against him

How history will remember him

The Numbers Don’t Lie: Harden’s Unmatched Offensive Prowess

For over a decade, James Harden has been one of the most consistent and elite offensive players in the NBA. His ability to score, create for teammates, and dominate games is statistically historic.

1. One of the Greatest Scorers of All Time

Harden has redefined offensive efficiency, combining scoring volume with elite three-point shooting, free throw generation, and isolation play.

Career Points Per Game: 24.7 PPG (as of 2025)
Three-Time NBA Scoring Champion (2018, 2019, 2020)
Career 40+ Point Games: Over 100
Career 50+ Point Games: 23 (4th most in NBA history)

During his peak in Houston, Harden averaged an astonishing 36.1 PPG in 2018-19, the highest since Michael Jordan in the 1980s.

2. An Underrated Playmaker

While Harden is often recognized for his scoring, many overlook his elite playmaking abilities. He is one of the best passers in the league, consistently ranking among the assist leaders.

2023 NBA Assists Leader
Career Assists Per Game: 7.0 APG
Only Player in NBA History with Multiple Seasons Averaging 30+ PPG and 10+ APG

Harden’s ability to run an offense, create for teammates, and facilitate makes him more than just a scorer—he is a true offensive engine.

3. Durability and Consistency

Unlike many modern superstars who miss games due to load management, Harden has historically been one of the most durable players in the NBA.

Played 75+ games in eight seasons
One of the NBA’s most durable stars before injuries slowed him down
Has maintained elite production for over a decade

Given these stats, why doesn’t Harden get the credit he believes he deserves?

Why James Harden Feels Underappreciated

Despite his accomplishments, Harden does not receive the universal praise that other superstars like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, or Steph Curry enjoy.

1. Playoff Struggles and Narrative Control

Harden has repeatedly been criticized for underperforming in the playoffs, and this has hurt his legacy.

2017 Western Conference Semifinals vs. Spurs: Infamously disappeared in Game 6, scoring just 10 points in an elimination game.

2018 Western Conference Finals vs. Warriors: Missed 27 straight threes in Game 7, leading to a collapse.

2021 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Played injured but struggled in critical moments against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Fair or not, these moments have led to the perception that Harden “shrinks” in big games—a narrative that has overshadowed his regular-season brilliance.

2. Style of Play: Loved by Some, Hated by Others

Harden’s game is highly effective but controversial. His reliance on:

Isolation-heavy offense
Step-back threes
Drawing fouls and free throws

has led some fans to view his game as boring or gimmicky. Critics argue that his scoring relies too much on foul-baiting, and when referees tighten their whistles in the playoffs, his effectiveness drops.

3. Off-Court Drama and Trade Requests

Harden has also damaged his reputation with a series of controversial trade requests:

Forced a trade from Houston in 2021 after showing up to training camp out of shape.

Left Brooklyn in 2022, citing frustration with the team’s culture.

Traded from Philadelphia in 2023 after falling out with management.

Many fans and analysts feel that Harden’s lack of loyalty and off-court distractions have hurt his public perception.

How Will History Remember James Harden?

With all of these factors in mind, where does Harden stand among the NBA’s greatest players?

1. A First-Ballot Hall of Famer

Regardless of his playoff struggles, Harden’s scoring records, MVP award, and decade-long dominance ensure he will be a first-ballot Hall of Famer.

Only player to record a 60-point triple-double

Top 30 all-time in career points and assists

One of only four players with 20,000+ points and 6,000+ assists

2. One of the Greatest Shooting Guards Ever

Harden is firmly in the conversation as a top-five shooting guard of all time, alongside:

Michael Jordan
Kobe Bryant
Dwyane Wade
Allen Iverson
James Harden

His offensive brilliance makes him one of the most unique and unstoppable guards in NBA history.

3. Will a Championship Change Everything?

The biggest hole in Harden’s legacy is a championship ring. If he can win a title, even as a second or third option, it could completely shift the narrative about his career.

Many superstars—Dirk Nowitzki, Kevin Garnett, and even LeBron James early in his career—were seen as playoff disappointments until they won a championship. If Harden finally gets a ring, it could change how history views him.

Final Verdict: Is James Harden Right? Does He Deserve More Credit?

So, does James Harden truly not get enough credit?

Yes, in terms of pure talent and statistical dominance, Harden is underrated. He is one of the best offensive players in NBA history, yet rarely mentioned in GOAT discussions.

But his playoff struggles and off-court drama hurt his perception. Many fans and analysts feel Harden had the talent to win multiple championships but fell short in the biggest moments.

Ultimately, Harden’s legacy is still being written. If he can win an NBA title before he retires, his career narrative could shift dramatically. But until then, the debate over whether he gets enough credit will continue.

What do you think? Does James Harden deserve more recognition, or has he already received the credit he’s due?