James Harden’s struggles might be the new normal in Cleveland

Ernesto Cova of King James Gospel argues that James Harden's early-season struggles for the Cleveland Cavaliers may represent a lasting decline. Despite Cleveland winning games, Cova contends that Kenny Atkinson's team is succeeding in spite of the guard rather than because of him. Through the first four games, Harden has struggled heavily with efficiency.

Statistically, Harden is averaging 15.8 points and 6.8 assists per game while shooting 32.7 percent from the field and 29.0 percent from three-point range alongside 3.8 turnovers. Cova asserts that age-related decline in separation and shot-making ability, combined with defensive deficiencies, could make the Cavaliers' offseason investment a costly gamble.