James Harden Injury: Update on Thunder Star's Hand Injury

Go ahead and add "injury" to the list of James Harden's NBA Finals problems. 

Not only is the Oklahoma City Thunder star shooting guard suffering from arguably the worst stretch of play of the season, but now he has a hurt hand to boot. 

Nonetheless, it doesn't sound like he will be limited (via ESPN):

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Oklahoma City reserve James Harden has a bruised left hand but is expected to play Thursday in Game 5 of the NBA Finals.

Harden was hurt during the Thunder's 104-98 loss to the Miami Heat on Tuesday. A Thunder spokesman says Harden took part in some of Wednesday's practice, but also iced his hand and sat out a portion.

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During the playoffs, the Sixth Man of the Year was well on his way to proving he was one of the best young talents in the NBA. 

Against the Mavs, 18.3 points per game on 50 percent shooting. Against the Lakers, 16.0 points and 1.6 steals per game while shooting 93 percent from the charity stripe. Against the Spurs, 18.5 points on 49 percent from the field and a ridiculous 61 percent from long range.

Harden looked unstoppable. His flowing beard and crafty play appeared to be what would carry the Thunder over the Heat for a title, but something changed.

The 23-year-old is scoring just 10.8 points per game on 35 percent shooting. Not only is he missing shots, he has looked hesitant and he's turning the ball over more than ever.

So this hand injury comes at the worst possible time.

With the Thunder just one game from elimination, they need their third-best option to return to form as soon as possible. But while the injury he sustained Tuesday night apparently won't limit his playing time, it's never good for a shooter to have anything wrong with his hand.

Especially a slumping shooter. 

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