James Harden disappoints again as unwanted playoff trend returns for the 6th time this year

James Harden has spent years under scrutiny for whether his regular-season reputation consistently carries deep into the playoffs.

This postseason did not change that narrative, as Cleveland’s run ended with a 4-0 Eastern Conference Finals sweep by the Knicks.

The final act was a 130-93 defeat, where Harden’s quiet box score and post-game comments kept the criticism firmly on him.

James Harden records five turnovers and two buckets in Knicks defeat

Harden finished Game 4 with 12 points, four rebounds and two assists, but the scoring total masked another inefficient night.

Eight points came at the free-throw line. He made both two-point attempts, but missed all six of his shots from three-point range.

He also committed five turnovers while making only two field goals. According to StatMuse, it was his sixth game this playoffs with more turnovers than buckets.

For a player brought in to help Cleveland manage high-pressure possessions, that number made for a poor ending to an underwhelming series.

James Harden’s reaction drew more criticism after sweep

Harden then faced more criticism for his post-match reaction, after suggesting Cleveland still had reasons to believe they were better than New York.

He accepted the Knicks dominated the series, but said the Cavaliers had not shown their best version.

That was difficult to square with the results. New York won every game, closed with a 37-point blowout and repeatedly forced Cleveland into poor offence.

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