The Los Angeles Clippers’ season came to a crushing end as the Denver Nuggets dismantled them in a 120-101 Game 7 defeat. While the entire team shared the disappointment of missing out on the Western Conference Semifinals, the moment felt heavier for James Harden—a player whose postseason struggles have become a recurring theme.
For Harden, this wasn’t just another playoff loss. It marked the fourth time in his career that he has lost a Game 7 with a different team, adding the Clippers to a list that already includes the Brooklyn Nets, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers. However, what frustrated fans and analysts even more was Harden’s decision to leave Ball Arena without speaking to the media—a move that sparked backlash across social media.
Clippers insider Tomer Azarly reported Harden’s abrupt exit shortly after the final buzzer, stating:
“James Harden left Ball Arena without speaking to media.”
James Harden left Ball Arena without speaking to media.
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) May 4, 2025
This wasn’t the first time Harden had avoided media duties—he reportedly skipped postgame interviews after each of the Clippers’ last three losses in the series.
Fans wasted no time expressing their frustration, with many criticizing Harden’s lack of accountability. Comments ranged from “Always disappearing” to “That’s weak, just like his game tonight!”. Others questioned his leadership, with one fan bluntly stating, “40 mil a year and less accountability than a high school coach making 4k.”
Harden’s performance in Game 7 was far from inspiring. He finished with just seven points on 2-of-8 shooting, while managing 13 assists, five rebounds, and two steals. While his playmaking was solid, his lack of scoring impact raised eyebrows once again—especially considering his history of underwhelming performances in elimination games.
Despite averaging 19.3 points, 7.9 assists, and 5.7 rebounds in the 2025 playoffs, Harden failed to elevate his game when it mattered most. His postseason narrative remains unchanged—strong regular-season numbers, followed by playoff disappointments.
Harden joined the Clippers with hopes of finally securing an elusive championship, but this latest playoff exit raises serious questions about his future. He holds a player option for next season, meaning he could choose to walk away from Los Angeles this summer. If this ends up being the case, fans may have very well seen the last of Harden in a Clippers uniform.
As the Clippers regroup after yet another disappointing playoff run, the focus shifts to what needs to change for the narrative to shift. For Harden, the scrutiny will only intensify as he faces yet another offseason filled with uncertainty.
