Good James vs. Bad James: Terry Pluto on how James Harden needs to play for the Cavs vs. the Raptors
Published on April 17, 2026.
Cleveland.com columnist Terry Pluto discusses the importance of James Harden for the Cleveland Cavaliers in their upcoming playoff match against the Raptors, stating that only one of these two versions of the player can help them win a championship. He suggests that while Harden can occasionally become shot-happy, he needs to control the tempo and set up the offense for the team. This is not the only time Harden has been to the Finals only once, with Oklahoma City, and he hasn't yet won a ring. Pluto suggests that the Cavs don't need Harden to be a savior, but instead they need him to demonstrate that he doesn't need to win the NBA title by himself.
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