The Clippers Just Rebuilt Their Roster — And James Harden Might Be the Key to Finally Winning It All

The Los Angeles Clippers are heading into the 2025-26 NBA season with a reloaded roster featuring James Harden, Bradley Beal, Chris Paul, and Kawhi Leonard. Harden, entering his second full season with the Clippers, has taken on a critical role as the team’s primary playmaker and veteran leader. Averaging 22.8 points and 8.7 assists during the 2024-25 season, Harden proved he could balance scoring with elite distribution, ranking 5th in assists per game across the NBA. His leadership and experience, backed by 11 All-Star appearances and 27,000+ career points, make him an invaluable asset in late-game situations and high-pressure playoff battles. The Clippers’ front office, led by Ty Lue and his staff, brought in key additions like Bradley Beal and Brook Lopez, while also welcoming back Chris Paul, the veteran point guard who once redefined the franchise back in 2011. With a revamped rotation of 11 veterans, the Clippers look stronger, deeper, and more balanced than ever. Can this be the year when Harden and the Clippers finally break through to an NBA championship?

Harden’s Leadership Defines the Clippers’ Identity

When the Los Angeles Clippers tip off the 2025-26 season on October 24 against the Phoenix Suns, all eyes will be on James Harden. Now a seasoned veteran with over 27,000 points and 11 All-Star selections, Harden has transformed into the emotional and tactical anchor of this squad.

No longer just the scoring machine he once was in Houston, Harden has fully embraced the dual responsibility of being a playmaker and secondary scorer. His 22.8 points per game last season proved he still has plenty left in the tank offensively, but it was his 8.7 assists per game—ranking 5th in the league—that cemented his value to the Clippers. Harden is no longer just chasing stats; he’s orchestrating victories.

Harden as the Primary Playmaker

The Clippers’ offensive system runs through Harden. With his court vision and passing IQ, he has become the engine of the team’s playmaking. Every possession flows through his hands, whether he’s feeding Kawhi Leonard in the midrange, setting up Bradley Beal for spot-up threes, or working the pick-and-roll with Ivica Zubac and Brook Lopez.

His ability to manipulate defenses makes him an elite distributor. Opponents know Harden can score in isolation, but when he shifts into facilitator mode, the Clippers become unpredictable and deadly.

Harden the Secondary Scorer

While Kawhi Leonard remains the Clippers’ first scoring option, Harden’s role as a secondary scorer is just as crucial. His 22.8 points per game last season showed he can take over when needed. With Bradley Beal now on board, Harden has the luxury of sharing the offensive load, giving the Clippers one of the most balanced scoring trios in the league.

For defenses, the question is brutal: double Harden, and Beal or Kawhi gets a clean look. Leave him alone, and Harden can punish you with his patented step-back three or powerful drives to the rim.

Veteran Leadership in Crucial Moments

Experience matters in the NBA—especially in the postseason. Harden has logged over 100 playoff games, and while critics often point to his shortcomings, his leadership in high-pressure moments is undeniable.

Clippers coach Ty Lue consistently leans on Harden in late-game situations. Whether it’s drawing fouls, slowing the pace, or finding the right matchup, Harden’s basketball IQ keeps the team calm under pressure. The Clippers believe this is the intangible edge that could finally carry them deep into the playoffs.

The Strengths Harden Brings to the Clippers

What makes Harden indispensable?

Playmaking excellence: His 8.7 assists per game prove he can orchestrate offense at an elite level.

Offensive versatility: He can shoot, drive, and post up, giving the Clippers multiple looks.

Composure under pressure: Harden thrives when the game slows down and every possession matters.

Mentorship: Younger players like Kris Dunn and even veterans like Bradley Beal benefit from Harden’s presence in the locker room.

The New-Look Clippers Roster

The Clippers front office has gone all-in on creating one of the deepest rosters in basketball. The 11-man veteran rotation for the 2025-26 season looks like this: James Harden; Bradley Beal; Kawhi Leonard; John Collins; Ivica Zubac; Chris Paul; Kris Dunn; Bogdan Bogdanovic; Derrick Jones Jr.; Brook Lopez; Nicolas Batum

This roster blends star power with depth, ensuring the Clippers can withstand injuries and still compete at the highest level.

The Return of Chris Paul: A Culture Shift

Perhaps the most emotional storyline of the offseason was the return of Chris Paul to the Clippers. Having first joined the franchise in 2011, Paul is credited with transforming the Clippers from an afterthought into a perennial playoff contender.

Now, in the twilight of his career, Paul brings leadership, stability, and veteran savvy. Sharing the backcourt with Harden gives the Clippers an extraordinary duo of playmakers, capable of breaking down any defense.

Coaching Staff and Strategic Adjustments

Head coach Ty Lue, now in his fifth season with the team, continues to adapt his strategies to fit the roster’s strengths. Flanked by assistants Jeff Van Gundy, Dahntay Jones, and Jay Larranaga, Lue’s staff is built on experience and tactical innovation.

Expect the Clippers to run a mix of high-tempo offense with Harden and Beal, while also utilizing slower half-court sets with Kawhi and Lopez. Flexibility will be the key to their success.

The Opening Night Battle

The Clippers open their season on October 24, 2025, against the Phoenix Suns. It’s more than just a game—it’s a statement. With the Suns featuring stars of their own, this matchup will be an early test of whether the Clippers’ new roster is championship-ready.

Harden’s Contract and Future with the Clippers

Harden made headlines by declining his $36.35 million player option and instead signing a two-year, $81.5 million contract with the Clippers. This deal ensures his presence through the 2026-27 season, solidifying his role in the franchise’s championship pursuit.

Financially, this was a win-win: Harden secures long-term stability, while the Clippers guarantee their veteran leader remains part of their championship window.

Championship Aspirations

The Clippers have long been labeled as a team that falls short in the postseason. With this roster, those excuses may finally disappear. Harden, Leonard, Beal, and Paul bring a wealth of experience and talent, supported by a deep bench that can withstand the grind of an 82-game season.

The goal is clear: NBA Finals or bust. For Harden, it’s a chance to silence critics and finally add the missing jewel to his career résumé: an NBA championship.

Closing Outlook: Harden’s Defining Chapter

As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, James Harden finds himself at a defining moment in his career. With elite numbers—22.8 points, 8.7 assists, 5th in assists league-wide—and an upgraded roster around him, this could be his best opportunity yet to win it all.

The Los Angeles Clippers have given him the tools, the teammates, and the stage. Now it’s up to Harden to prove that his legacy is not just about stats and accolades but about leadership and championships.