ASK IRA: Are playoffs exposing all the flaws in Dwyane Wade- James Harden debate?
Q: Ira, why are we having this debate about James Harden being better than Dwyane Wade. Does anybody actually watch? – Simon.
A: The absurdity with which James Harden flailed on offense and failed on defense in Game 1 on Tuesday night against the Knicks is only the latest evidence for anyone even attempting to compare him to Dwyane Wade , particularly from a playoff perspective. Yes, James Harden has had some huge numbers in playoff games over his career, but he also has walked through playoff games to a degree unseen by Dwyane Wade. Dwyane made it look effortless at times in the playoffs.
Harden, by contrast, has established the bar on lack of postseason effort. We saw it Tuesday night. We saw it against the Pistons.
Related Articles Submit your “Ask Ira” question here! Q: Ira, there were stretches Tuesday night when the Cavs and Knicks looked horrible. I think Pat Riley is right in thinking the East is not out of the question.
– Ed. A: But the Cavaliers at their best and Knicks at their best still are far better than the current Heat at their best (as are the Celtics and arguably others at the top of the East). When it comes to contention, a team’s ceiling is the best measure of the possibilities.