James Harden implies Clippers’ new success stems from better-defined roles—and a key former star’s exit.

James Harden has never been one to mince words, and his latest comments about the Los Angeles Clippers’ improved chemistry this season seem to contain some subtle shade—directed perhaps at his former co-star, Paul George.

While Harden didn’t name names, his words spoke volumes when comparing the current 2024-25 Clippers to last year’s version.

“It’s just different. Different team. We got guys that know their role and know what they’re supposed to be doing consistently on a night-to-night basis. From the beginning of the season. It’s just a different team.”

When pressed on what made the difference, Harden gave a telling answer:

“Personnel. You guys know. You know the players we had last year.”

That final line has stirred speculation and discussion among fans and analysts alike. Last year’s Clippers were brimming with star power—Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, James Harden, Russell Westbrook, and Norman Powell all shared the floor in one of the most talent-loaded lineups in the NBA.

But with all that firepower came confusion, overlapping roles, and poor timing. The Clippers held a 36-17 record at the All-Star break, good for a top-four seed in the West.

But injuries derailed their rhythm, most notably Kawhi’s untimely absence, and the team collapsed down the stretch, eventually losing in the first round of the playoffs to the Dallas Mavericks.

Paul George, often seen as the co-anchor alongside Kawhi, drew criticism for his inconsistencies in crucial moments and inability to adapt when the lineup shifted.

Now that he’s gone—having departed in free agency to the Philadelphia 76ers—it seems Harden views the new structure as far more stable and effective.

This year’s Clippers aren’t flashy, but they are balanced and dangerous. Currently sitting at 46-32 and seventh in the West, they’ve quietly put together a formidable second half of the season.

Kawhi Leonard, finally healthy, has looked like a true MVP candidate over the last ten games, averaging 26.0 points, 7.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and over 2 combined steals and blocks per game—all while shooting an axqdbsurd 57% from the field, 52% from three, and 92% from the free-throw line.

James Harden himself has rediscovered his rhythm, seamlessly running the offense with a newfound maturity and purpose. His shot selection is sharper, and his playmaking remains elite. Norman Powell, meanwhile, has played at an All-Star caliber level and was widely viewed as a snub this season.

Without the weight of managing multiple superstar egos or navigating unclear hierarchies, the Clippers look locked in. The roles are clearer. The chemistry is stronger. And though they may not have the record they held last season, they might just be more dangerous now.

While Harden’s comments may not have been direct, the implication is clear: subtraction has led to addition in Los Angeles. And as the postseason nears, the Clippers are starting to look like a real threat in the West—perhaps not in name, but certainly in form.