In a recent game, the Clippers defeated the Warriors 102-92 and currently hold the fifth spot in the Western Conference with a win rate close to 60%. This win rate is reminiscent of James Harden's time in Philadelphia, where he led the team to a 63% win rate when Joel Embiid was not playing. However, Harden's performance with the Clippers is slightly lower than his solo efforts in Philadelphia. This could be attributed to the team configuration, as in Philadelphia, when Embiid was absent, Harden had Maxey to rely on for scoring and Harris also had more opportunities due to the absence of the "Emperor." Additionally, Philadelphia had a young defensive specialist like Melton, who was similar to a younger version of Beverley.
The difference between Philadelphia and Brooklyn lies in their approach; Philadelphia didn't have grand ambitions and simply focused on building around Harden when Embiid was out. The Clippers, on the other hand, have a purer strategy, combining Leonard's playing style to revolve their tactics around Harden. This is because Leonard's style can fit into any team, making him akin to a cheat code that can be plugged into any system.
As Harden mentioned in an interview, Leonard expressed anxiety about his return, fearing it might disrupt the Clippers' established chemistry. Harden reassured him, stating that his playing style naturally complements the current roster, likening it to upgrading Dunn to Leonard. Leonard was immediately pleased and no longer worried. Leonard's return doesn't significantly affect Harden individually; he remains the tactical core but may see a slight decrease in shot attempts, which is actually beneficial as he now has another superstar to draw defensive attention.
Leonard's return impacts Powell the most, likely leading to a decrease in his scoring. This season, Powell thrived alongside Harden, averaging 24.2 points with a 49.6% field goal percentage and a remarkable 46.6% three-point shooting. In the last five games, the Clippers went 4-1, with Powell scoring 29, 29, 28, 29, and 26 points respectively, averaging 28.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.8 steals per game.
Against the Warriors, Powell played 40 minutes, shooting 10-of-20 for a team-high 26 points, along with 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, and 1 block, with a game-high +18 plus-minus. Leonard's return won't affect Harden's ball-handling rights but will require some players to sacrifice shot attempts. Powell anticipated this and stated after the game that he would make sacrifices for Leonard. Witnessing Harden's selflessness for the team is hard not to be moved by. Powell highly praised Harden's performance in Leonard's absence.
Powell also called on all Clippers players to make necessary sacrifices, leading by example. He acknowledges that under Harden's leadership, everyone on the team is selfless, with no more selfish individuals. Reflecting on Powell's previous comments about Paul George, it seems George's departure was indeed beneficial for Powell, as it allowed more opportunities for others, especially with one less player demanding shots and ball-handling rights.
Powell may sacrifice some stats, but it's better than last season. Last year, George took many of Powell's shot attempts, relegating him to the bench. This year, Powell has become a starter, and although his stats may drop when Leonard returns, his scoring efficiency could improve. With Harden drawing defenders and Leonard assisting, Powell's scoring might not decrease significantly. The starting lineup features Harden, Powell, Leonard at small forward, and the frontcourt duo of Jones and Zubac.