Oklahoma City's James Harden Is San Antonio Spurs' Manu Ginobili, 2.0
Before we get into Western Conference Finals pre-series hype and predictions, there is an intriguing matchup that goes beyond the likes of Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Tony Parker and Tim Duncan.
Two of the NBA's most efficient Sixth Men will go head-to-head beginning Sunday in San Antonio for what is primed to be one of the most exciting series in this season's playoffs. This season's Sixth Man of the Year, James Harden is only in his third professional season at 22. Manu Ginobili, winner of the award after the 2007-2008 season, is at a completely different stage of his career at 34, however, his impact on his team equals that of Harden.
Both players are known for their innate ability to get underneath their opponents skin. They thoroughly enjoy playing the game within the game, which gives them an often unnoticed edge on the court. The mental aspect of basketball is sometimes understated, however, both Ginobili and Harden, understand the importance of a mental edge (ala Reggie Miller vs. John Starks) and have conquered their foes night in and night out.
James Harden's minutes, field goal percentage, free throw percentage, points, rebounds and assists have all increased in each of his first three seasons as a pro, per statistics listed on ESPN.com:
Now those numbers are eerily similar to those of his counterpart, Manu Ginobili in his first three seasons as a pro. However, before we get into Manu's numbers, the fact that these two special players will merely be a subplot in the Western Conference Finals speaks volumes to how spectacular this series should be. Their personal games are almost mirror images of each other. They are great scorers who also look to make the correct play, always keeping their head up and eyes down court to make the precision pass to a cutting teammate.
Now, a look at Manu's first three years in the league:
The comparison between these players is not simply statistical, however, as there are clear similarities within their on-court demeanor and offensive prowess. For starters, both are left-handed, which also makes this comparison that much more unique.
Both Harden and Ginobili have perfected, what has been dubbed as, the "Euro-side-step", which allows for them to bypass the player attempting to draw a charge and find the basket unguarded. It also makes their defenders looks increasingly foolish each time they decide to pull it out from their bevy of tricks.
Don't stop there! Both Manu and James constantly appear as if they are lining up to take a perimeter jumper, only to change their mind at the final second, rifling the leather down the lane for an easy bucket by a teammate.
Click here for a Manu Ginobili example from late this season.
When you're finished, check out James Harden turn defense into the fast break filthy flush.
James possesses the athleticism Manu lacks, however, make no mistake, Ginobili can get up and throw it down, however, he saves that energy to absorb contact and finish in traffic time and time again.
When you begin watching the NBA Western Conference Finals, just remember that the stars extend beyond the starting units. Championship basketball requires personal sacrifice and there is no better example of surrendering personal glory for the betterment of the team than Manu Ginobili and James Harden. Make sure to keep an eye on this Key Matchup as it truly may be the deciding factor in the series.
.jpg?w=600 "Colts Release Kenny Moore")
