James Harden posts cryptic Instagram story after 76ers playoff reckoning
James Harden seems to have had enough. After the Heat unceremoniously bounced the Sixers from the playoffs, the criticism of his play, especially down the stretch, has reached an all-time high. Yet, despite the media circus culminating with Stephen A. Smith demanding an investigation into his play, the former MVP has remained silent since his final press conference. Well, at least until tonight.
Harden took to Instagram with this cryptic now-deleted post:
Originally tweeted by 𝙁𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨 🔥 (@FlamesNBA21) on May 16, 2022.
“I be [quiet] about shit. I just let the people talk. It’s a lot that goes into it. Keep pushin.”
At first, I thought Harden deleted the story because of the typo, but since it’s been a while and he hasn’t reposted it, it’s safe to say he realized it might not be best to voice displeasure after an embarrassing playoff defeat. The negative discourse around him has only intensified since his abysmal second half of Game 6, and I would consider any gripe he may have with the media valid.
Much of the criticism Harden has received for his performance is valid as well, too But, at the same time, his steep drop-off late in games could be a sign of something deeper than just the natural decline of an aging superstar.
I’m not one to make excuses for players, but there is a decent chance Harden’s damaged hamstring hurts even more than he lets on. Age is part of the equation, but it’s not the whole story.
No matter what may be going on with Harden, it’s clear he’s frustrated. While the media noise may be the most likely cause, those simple connections never quite happen with the Sixers.
There could be a lot more bubbling under the surface.
Check out the latest deals in PA sports betting
Listen to The Wolves of Broad Street
