James Harden, the former NBA MVP and current Clippers guard, recently revealed his all-time starting lineup in a candid conversation with popular streamer Nick Fosco, known as FaZe Lacy. Reflecting on his 16-year career across teams like the Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, and Philadelphia 76ers, Harden discussed the impressive talents he has played alongside, settling on a five-player group he would choose to suit up with in their primes.
Harden’s lineup notably blends star power and versatility, including the renowned guards Kyrie Irving and Russell Westbrook, two former MVPs with different but equally impactful skill sets. Harden places himself at the small forward position alongside Kevin Durant and Joel Embiid, bringing together a squad built for speed, shooting, and dominance in the paint.
Deciding the Backcourt: A Tough Choice for Guards
During the interview, Harden was asked by Lacy to pick his ultimate starting five from all his former teammates. The question triggered a difficult decision among elite point guards Harden has played with, reflecting on the unique strengths of Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook, and Kyrie Irving.
Harden acknowledged the challenge, stating,
“The point guard position is crazy, you got CP (Chris Paul), Russell Westbrook, and Kyrie Irving”
—James Harden, NBA Player
All three have left tremendous marks on the league: Westbrook, an MVP known for his triple-double averages; Irving, an NBA champion celebrated for his skill and scoring; and Paul, often seen as one of the smartest players ever with exceptional playmaking abilities. Despite their greatness, Harden eventually decided to exclude Paul, choosing Kyrie and Westbrook as his guards, thus moving himself into a forward role.
Constructing a Small, Dynamic Team with Size and Skill
Harden’s lineup features three guards complemented by two towering seven-footers, Durant and Embiid, providing size and offensive firepower. He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to run the floor and push pace, while offering a blend of elite handles and shooting ability.
Harden explained,
“Let me just go Kyrie Irving, Russell Westbrook, Me, Kevin Durant, and Joel Embiid”
—James Harden, NBA Player
He described this lineup as,
“I like that team. Small team that can run the floor, has handles, can shoot.”
—James Harden, NBA Player
Including Durant was a natural choice for Harden, given Durant’s reputation as one of the greatest players in league history, with multiple championships and MVP honors. Embiid, a dominant force with the Philadelphia 76ers and a former MVP candidate, rounds out the starting five, chosen over other big men Harden has played with, like Dwight Howard, who was his teammate in Houston.
Reflecting on Past Partnerships and Team Dynamics
The mention of Irving and Durant alongside Harden inevitably stirs memories for Brooklyn Nets fans, recalling the highly anticipated trio that never fully materialized as hoped. Harden’s selections remind basketball enthusiasts of what could have been during that star-studded era in Brooklyn.
Harden’s all-time lineup showcases a team that balances skill, size, and versatility—traits that are essential to success in today’s fast-paced NBA. This combination highlights Harden’s optimistic vision for a squad that can compete at the highest level with a focus on speed, shooting, and physical presence in the paint.
Looking Ahead: What Harden’s Picks Reveal
This revealing lineup not only demonstrates Harden’s respect for his own teammates’ talents but also reflects his understanding of how different player strengths complement each other on the court. It offers fans insight into the strategic mindset of one of the game’s most prolific scorers and playmakers.
As Harden continues his career with the Clippers, this all-time starting five remains a fascinating reflection of his NBA journey and the elite caliber of players he has shared the floor with. It also fuels passionate discussion about player legacies and all-time teams in the league.