James Harden Struggles Continue as Clippers Face Timberwolves

The Los Angeles Clippers are set to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday, January 6, 2025, at the Target Center in Minneapolis. The game, tipping off at 9:00 p.m. ET, will be a crucial test for James Harden, who has been struggling to find his scoring rhythm this season.

Harden, a former MVP and one of the NBA’s most prolific scorers, is averaging 21.5 points per game this season but shooting just 34.5% from beyond the arc and 39% from the field overall. His recent performances have been inconsistent, with the veteran guard scoring 10 points in a win over the Atlanta Hawks and 17 points against the San Antonio Spurs on New Year’s Eve. Harden has hit the Under in points in four of his last six games, raising concerns about his ability to contribute offensively.

The Timberwolves present a particularly tough matchup for Harden. In their previous meeting on December 4, 2024, he managed just five points against Minnesota’s stout defense. The Timberwolves have been effective at limiting opposing point guards, allowing only 22.5 points per game to the position. With Kawhi Leonard returning to the Clippers’ lineup, Harden’s opportunities to score may be further reduced as the team looks to ease Leonard back into action.

On the other side, Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards is coming off a career-high 53-point performance against the Detroit Pistons, despite the Timberwolves’ loss. Edwards has been a standout performer this season, averaging 4.1 made 3-pointers per game on 42% shooting from deep. He has hit the Over in 3-pointers in four of his last six games, including a 10-for-15 performance from beyond the arc against Detroit.

The Timberwolves have won three straight games against the Clippers and hold a 9-6 record as home favorites this season. With Edwards in peak form and Harden struggling, Minnesota is poised to capitalize on their recent dominance over Los Angeles.

As the Clippers look to build momentum following Leonard’s return, all eyes will be on Harden to see if he can break out of his scoring slump. However, given his recent performances and Minnesota’s defensive prowess, the odds are stacked against him.